Born in Vancouver, B.C., Teressa Bernard was first introduced to watercolour painting in 1979. Since 1986, when she started painting seriously in watercolour, she has had an intense desire to learn more and share her excitement with others. Primarily self-taught, she began teaching watercolour painting in 1988. She is dedicated to her art work and as well as selling and displaying her work locally and internationally, has done numerous private commissions. She has been an active member of the Federation of Canadian Artists since 1987, was elected to AFCA Status in 1991 and has been the recipient of numerous awards.

Flexibility has allowed her to explore watercolour with the same sense of excitement that she had when first introduced to the medium and she is currently exploring mixed media and painting in acrylics as well as print making techniques, with the same enthusiasm. She is currently the 1st Vice President of the Board of Directors of the Federation of Canadian Artists.