“Summit Within” – Mixed Media Portrait of Mr Werner Berger
Original Mixed Media Portrait by Ms Bella St John.
This textured oil pastel portrait captures Werner Berger with a serenity forged not just by altitude, but by inner ascent. At nearly 70 years old, he became the oldest North American to summit Mount Everest — not in pursuit of records, but as a testament to possibility, discipline, and the quiet fire of a purposeful life. He has since become the Guinness Book of World Records holder for being the oldest person in the World to have climbed the highest mountain on each of the seven (7) continents (incl. Mt. Everest).
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Set against a backdrop inspired by Everest itself, the piece uses sweeping texture and shimmering highlights to evoke the majesty and mystery of the mountain. Yet it is not the mountain that dominates — it is the man. His smile, calm and grounded, speaks of resilience earned through challenge, and joy found in simplicity.
Rather than painting a climber in action, “The Summit Within” offers a contemplative glimpse into the spirit that made the climb. It is a tribute to endurance without ego, strength with humility, and the kind of courage that elevates others simply by example.
