Category: Bernard O. Gruenke

Bernard O. Gruenke, Sr. dedicated his entire life to the arts. As a young man, he received a scholarship from Ms. Marie Kohler, of the Kohler company, to attend the Corcoran School of Art in Washington, D.C.

 

Afterwards, he joined and later purchased the renowned national art studio, Conrad Schmitt Studios, and went on to provide murals, stained glass and decorating for hundreds of churches, theaters and public buildings throughout the U.S.

 

He created several drawings or watercolors each day even into his 90’s. But his favorite times were working with children to help them understand that they are great artists.

In addition to collecting works of art, Bernard O. Gruenke was an accomplished artist in his own right. The Foundation maintains a collection of his oils, including portraits, landscapes, and still life paintings spanning more 70 years – a lifetime of art.

Some of Bernard o. Gruenke’s most personal artwork includes pieces in watercolor and pastel. In these informal works, Senior captured the moments of everyday life – views from his hilltop Wisconsin home, his children and grandchildren playing at the family like cottage, portraits of his family, and studies of religious figures.