Meet Celeste Bergin | Oil Painter & founder of Alla Prima Portland

We had the good fortune of connecting with Celeste Bergin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Celeste, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
“There is nothing more truly artistic than to love people.” ― Vincent Van Gogh

This quote resonates with me because it emphasizes that art is not just about the final product, but about the connections we form and the human experiences we share. In the group that I founded (Alla Prima Portand) I’ve seen how genuine affection for one another’s perspectives enriches both our art and our lives.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As a former Art Director and Graphic Designer, adapting from commercial to fine art wasn’t always easy. I often found myself wishing for advice and camaraderie. That’s why I’m particularly proud of founding ‘Alla Prima Portland’, a warm and welcoming community for artists. Here, painters of all kinds come together to share experiences, spark inspiration, and simply enjoy each other’s company. It’s been a joy to create a space where creativity thrives and friendships flourish.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?

If we’re spending a week with me in Portland, Oregon, we’ll kick things off with a trip to the Columbia River Gorge. The “gorgeous gorge” has breathtaking views, majestic waterfalls, and plenty of opportunities for hiking and outdoor fun. That’s a full day for sure. Next, we will have to visit the Portland Art Museum in downtown Portland. No doubt we’ll make a trip to the famous Voodoo Donuts. At some point, we will have to experience Portland’s brewing scene! We’ll dive into the city’s rich brewing heritage with a fun brewery tour (but remember, no mixing beers with donuts!). Let’s take in some city parks too. All of them are wonderful. One of the best is Washington Park is known for its stunning roses, (if the timing is right, that is a must-visit). Portland is the City of Roses, after all. A trip to Powells is always fun (the largest independent bookstore in the world). Finally, if bestie is up for it we’ll have a lunch at Timberline Lodge on Mt. Hood. (I recommend the Salmon).

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are too many people to name, but if I had to choose one, it would be my husband, Dave. Many years ago, I returned home from a mundane job to find a new, large easel positioned in the center of our front room. A handwritten sign was tacked to it, “Happy Birthday!” (It was mid-summer, and my birthday wasn’t until December). Since that moment, there has been no turning back.

Website: https://www.celestebergin.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/celestebergin/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/celeste-bergin-24248ab/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/celeste.bergin

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@allaprimaportland6812

Other: https://allaprimaportland.blogspot.com