Bernie was born in Hamburg, Germany in 1941. For more than 20 years, he has made Henderson, Nevada his home. He started painting when he was 14 years old and has since sold paintings in Europe, New Jersey, California, Nevada and New York.

He is a member of the Las Vegas Art Guild, the Clark County Art Guild, the City Lights Gallery, the Boulder City Art Gallery, and the newly-opened art galleries at Lake Las Vegas.

Bernie started playing guitar when he was 13 years old. Later he played with a skiffle band (American Country music) in Germany at various clubs and events. In 1962 he was featured on German television with popular entertainer Peter Frankenfeld. He has worked with artists from around the world. He has played with several bands and as a solo act. He continues to play regularly.