By Dale LaCasella

For June Berger, a canvas is a place where scripture takes shape in color. At the Oct. 22 opening reception for her “Salt and Light” exhibition at The Gallery at Hillcrest, visitors studied her abstract paintings and read the inspirational messages behind their titles.

The exhibition, free and open to the public through Dec. 29, reflects Berger’s interest in connecting message and image—work she hopes will encourage viewers to explore the Bible themselves.

Born in Portland, Oregon, Berger began her career as a graphic artist. After graduating from the California College of the Arts in San Francisco, she opened Pelican Studios Branding & Communications in West Vancouver, British Columbia, providing creative art and design for corporate and executive branding clients.

Berger moved to Southern California in 2018 and embarked on a full-time career as an independent artist. Her current works draw on the wisdom, promises and accounts of Old and New Testament scripture, translating biblical messages into vibrant, dreamlike images.

On her website, Berger describes her paintings as reminders of God’s love and plan, intended to encourage viewers to read the Bible.

“And, of course, they are also designed to be beautiful all by themselves,” she writes.

Visit The Gallery at Hillcrest

The Gallery at Hillcrest is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. “Salt and Light” is free to view and open to the public through Dec. 29.

In addition to the canvases displayed in the gallery, Berger’s other creative works, including journals, mugs, throw pillows and artistic gift items, can be found in Juanita’s Gift Shop at Hillcrest, 2705 Mountain View Drive in La Verne. The shop is open from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Berger is donating all proceeds from exhibition sales and related gift items to support Hillcrest residents in financial need and The Gallery at Hillcrest.

Dale LaCasella is a retired attorney, sculptor and writer who lives in the Hillcrest community. She is the artist behind Two Cat Studio and the publisher of Two Cat Media.