Bernard Langlais (1921-1977) was an American artist known for his sculptures and paintings. He was born in Old Town, Maine, and grew up in the state's rural countryside. Langlais initially studied engineering, but he later pursued a career in art, attending the Corcoran School of Art in Washington, D.C.
Langlais gained recognition for his large-scale wooden sculptures, often created from found materials and salvaged wood. He carved animals, figures, and abstract forms, employing a bold and expressive style. His works exude a sense of energy and rawness, reflecting his connection to nature and rural life.
In the 1960s, Langlais moved to Cushing, Maine, where he established his own sculpture garden and studio. He created a vast body of work, including outdoor sculptures and whimsical paintings that often incorporated animals and Maine landscapes. Langlais' art celebrates his love for nature and reflects his fascination with wildlife and local folklore.
After his death in 1977, the Bernard Langlais Foundation was established to preserve his legacy and maintain his Cushing property as a public art space. Today, Langlais' works can be found in various public collections and museums, including the Farnsworth Art Museum in Rockland, Maine, and the Colby College Museum of Art in Waterville, Maine. His sculptures and paintings continue to be admired for their distinctive style and his unique contributions to American art.