Art & Learning Programs Consultancy
My practice, Art & Learning Programs Consultancy, is uniquely positioned at the intersection of human-centered inquiry, cultural heritage, and science-informed artistic practice. I specialize in collaborating with independent artists whose work engages with pressing topics like environmental systems, elemental forces of nature, and climate change. I translate their complex research and visions into meaningful, accessible experiences and public programs, designing content strategies that deepen engagement, amplify artistic voices, and bridge diverse audiences with vital scientific and cultural narratives.
Demonstrated Skills
Curatorial & Artistic Collaboration
Program Development & Design
Content Strategy & Delivery
Community Engagement
Project Management
Innovation & Technology Integration
Kidspace Children's Museum in Partnership with DesignMatters
Pop-Up Experiences
In partnership with Kidspace Children’s Museum in Pasadena, this Designmatters and Product Design studio challenged transdisciplinary ArtCenter students to conceptualize and create an engaging age-appropriate museum play experience and a companion Pop-Up exhibit that would serve as educational outreach at community locations.
LACMA, Art+Tech Lab with Jen Liu
Pink Slime Caesar Shift
As Research Resident with LACMA’s Art + Technology Lab, I collaborated with artist Jen Liu on the development of Pink Slime Caesar Shift, a project exploring the intersections of biotechnology, labor rights, and global supply chains. My contributions included conducting research on Chinese female labor activism, prototyping wearable forms, and designing cultural probes to ground the work in human-centered inquiry. These efforts helped shape the project’s conceptual and material direction, supporting the creation of the anti-static bracelet series that embeds genetic codes as both biological and political messages. Project outcomes featured internationally at the 2019 Singapore Biennial, extending the impact of research into broader cultural and activist contexts.
Beyond The Past
Bridging Cultural Heritage with Contemporary Art
Presented as part of the World Neolithic Congress, Beyond The Past brought together 11 contemporary artists whose works responded to the history and symbolism of Göbekli Tepe, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the world’s oldest known temple complex. In collaboration with the curator, I co-led the exhibition’s visual identity, developed digital and print content strategies, and supported curatorial messaging. The project drew strong local and international engagement, secured funding to become a traveling exhibition, and highlighted my expertise in curatorial collaboration, cultural storytelling, and content strategy.
"I had the pleasure of working with Berna during the development of Tangible Data, an art and science initiative that transforms climate and sustainability datasets into large-scale, tactile sculptures and interactive experiences. She played a key role in helping us conceptualize the international extension of the project to museums in other countries, identifying pathways for collaboration and audience engagement that went far beyond the original installation. Her understanding of museum operations, programming, and public outreach was invaluable in shaping a scalable model that could adapt to diverse institutional contexts. Berna combines strategic vision with a genuine sensitivity to the artist's process, bridging creative expression and institutional purpose with ease. I have no doubt that any museum or cultural organization will benefit greatly from her insight, professionalism, and commitment to meaningful public engagement."
Antonio Moneo, Founder & Director, Tangible Data
"Berna brings a remarkable depth of knowledge and cultural insight to her work. In 2024, during my curatorship of the exhibition organized within the framework of the International Archeology Congress, held for the first first time in the world at the Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum, she collaborated with me on the preparation of the exhibition catalog and promotional materials, delivering excellent results. Her meticulous approach to art, strong foundation in museology, and outstanding communication skills make her an invaluable collaborator and a trusted colleague."
Serap Gümüşoğlu, Sculptor, Visual Artist & Curator
"Working with Berna profoundly supported my professional and creative growth. Her guidance encouraged me to reflect on my artistic practice; to deconstruct it, examine its components, and gain a clearer understanding of what I do and why I do it. The consultancy offered me a valuable opportunity to step back and reflect on the iterative processes I had been following, allowing me to approach my practice with renewed clarity and purpose."
Beril Nur Denli, Ceramic Artist
"Berna combines intellectual rigor, creativity and a deep understanding of the role art plays in society. Her vision is a sensitive, ethical and original one."
Ander Azpiri, Visual Artist & Culture Management
"Working with Berna transformed the way I share my art with the world. As a physicist-turned-artist exploring liquid sculpture photography, I needed guidance not only in presenting my work but also in building a community around it. Berna developed my online portfolio, helped me strategize and refine my artistic identity, and even guided me through filming an introductory video during the height of COVID, when in-person opportunities were impossible. Her creativity, professionalism, and ability to translate complex artistic ideas into accessible digital platforms were invaluable. Thanks to her support, I was able to reach new audiences, which directly contributed to being accepted into securing my first solo gallery application. I am truly proud and grateful for the opportunity to work with someone whose vision and dedication made such a lasting impact."
Murat Kunt, Artist, Liquid Sculpture Lab
Thank You
My practice is built on human-centered collaboration with artists and curators, translating complex ideas into meaningful, accessible experiences for diverse audiences. Whether developing an exhibition’s conceptual direction, designing public programs, or amplifying an artist’s voice, I bring a proven blend of curatorial insight, content strategy, and project management. I look forward to partnering with you to bring your next visionary artistic project to life.

Berna Onat
(626) 463 - 3622 | [email protected]
bernaonat.com