Bernard Gallery
The place of The Region
The Bernard Gallery at Calumet College of St. Joseph celebrates the “Place” of the Calumet Region through artistic expressions of the area’s environment, cultural heritage and labor.
L. Cosby Bernard, Jr., a noted architect of civic buildings, served as a member of the College’s Board of Trustees. This gallery, named in his honor, serves as a remembrance of his generosity and commitment to the community of Calumet College of St. Joseph and the Region.
The Bernard Gallery is a community art space located in Calumet College of St. Joseph’s Smidt Building and is open to the public
Visit Our Art Spaces
The Gallery
Located on the 2nd floor, The Gallery features a permanent photography exhibit that captures the essence of the Calumet Region in a unique and captivating manner. Additionally, we host several special exhibits throughout the year, including student-curated shows that provide a fresh and diverse perspective of the region’s art and culture.
The Nook
Located on the 1st floor, The Nook serves as an extension of the Bernard Gallery. This innovative space displays a rotation of artwork and offers students and visitors a unique sneak peek into previous exhibitions, selected pieces from special events and showcases artwork from CCSJ’s permanent collection.
Current Exhibit
Through Their Eyes: Father and Son
September 15 – October 17, 2025
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we are delighted to announce a special art exhibition featuring the works of Francisco Cuadra and César Cuadra. This unique exhibit showcases the artistic journey and perspectives of a remarkable father and son duo from the Calumet Region.
Francisco Cuadra, the father, and a respected business owner in his community, is a self-taught painter whose artistic journey began in his bakery, located in Lake Station, Indiana. His artwork has always been deeply rooted in service to his community, notably through his heartfelt portraits of fallen soldiers. His dedication to both his craft and community exemplifies the powerful connection between art and cultural heritage.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Cesar Cuadra has developed his own distinct style as both an artist and a member of the family bakery business. The exhibition offers a rare opportunity to explore the contrasting, yet complementary, artistic expressions of the Cuadra family, highlighting the interplay between tradition and innovation.
Experience firsthand the creative interpretations that define the Cuadra family’s contribution to the arts.
Future Exhibits
Remember Me
October 20 – November 14, 2025
We are excited to announce an upcoming art installation by artist Juan Carlos Rodriguez at The Nook. This “Day of the Dead” exhibit is a vibrant celebration of life and a heartfelt tribute to honoring death. This exhibit promises to be an immersive art experience, filled with vivid colors, rich traditions, and an atmosphere of excitement.
Artist of CCSJ: Faculty and Staff Art Show
TBA
This exhibit will proudly showcase the diverse and remarkable works created by our talented faculty and staff members. Their artistic contributions reflect not only their creativity but also their deep connection to our institution and the broader Calumet Region community. We are honored to highlight their presence and celebrate their talents, which enrich both our building and the surrounding area.
Permanent Exhibit
The Doherty Collection
Pete Doherty, class of 1975, is a former bank marketing executive who started Doherty Images, LLC, in 2005. His photography emphasizes the Chicago Lakefront and Indiana Dunes as well as industrial and commercial images.
Pete’s work has been exhibited throughout the Calumet Region. His work is displayed at Calumet College of St. Joseph as part of our permanent collection.
Contact the Bernard Gallery
ADDRESS
2400 New York Ave
2nd Floor
Whiting, Indiana 46394
HOURS
Monday – Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday: Closed (Open for Special Events)
ADMISSION
Free
Open to the public
GALLERY COORDINATOR
Monica Puente
Phone: (219) 473-4325
E-mail: gallery@ccsj.edu
FLORA PARK PROSAL SUBMISSIONS:
We are seeking proposals from experienced artists for the design and execution of an outdoor piece of public art that inspires visitors to reflect on the natural beauty of the Calumet Region. Click here for more details.
You Belong
at Calumet College of St. Joseph!
