ABOUT THE PAINTING: In an effort to commemorate the historic career of Tyrell Fenroy, artist Tony Bernard decided to honor Fenroy with his paintbrush.  Fenroy’s four-year career began by becoming the first Ragin’ Cajuns running back to ever rush for 1,000 yards.  It ended with his jersey being retired before playing in his final game.
Along the way, Fenroy shattered school, Sun Belt and State of Louisiana career rushing records.  He is the school and conference single-game rushing leader and the Cajuns’ single-season rushing leader.  Fenroy’s 49 touchdowns, 294 points scored and 5,231 rushing & receiving yards are both UL and Sun Belt career records.  He owns school marks for single-season touchdowns, career 100-yard games and is the first player to average over 100 yards rushing per game in a career in school history.  His 89-yard run at ULM was the longest in stadium and Sun Belt history and the second longest run in Cajuns history.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Tony Bernard was born and raised in Lafayette. A true Cajun, Bernard possess an engaging outlook on life that endears him to anyone fortunate enough to cross his path. His appreciation for Cajun culture and cuisine, in addition to his affinity for sports and outdoors is evident in the way he lives, works and plays.
Bernard was in junior high when he discovered that he possessed a raw talent that he now recognizes to be a “Gift from God.” With no professional training, armed solely with passion and determination, he developed an impeccable artistic ability that paved the way for a career in the world of art.
He started in commercial art in 1983, and gained recognition for winning first place in a National Art Contest, which published his work in a nationwide magazine for artists. Bernard then ventured into visual art in the early 1990’s and in the mid-90’s he began his working relationship with world-renowned artist George Rodrigue.
Bernard remains an employee of Rodrigue and through their relationship has grown as an artist.  Bernard not only views Rodrigue as a friend, but also a mentor throughout his career.
Bernard has cultivated his techniques using a variety of mediums, becoming extremely proficient in pen and ink and pencil. However, it is oils and acrylics on canvas that are his favorite way to express his artistic flare.
Since beginning his professional career, Bernard has been commissioned to produce original art for local and regional festivals, professional athletic teams, NASCAR and SEC sporting events. He has created lifelike wildlife pieces that have been entered in the Louisiana Duck Stamp Competition, placing 2nd, 3rd and 2nd in 2003, 2004 and 2005, respectively. Bernard was the winner of the 2007-2008 Louisiana Duck Stamp Competition.
In addition to wildlife and sporting events, Bernard is gaining respect and recognition as a portrait artist. His mesmerizing portrait of the legendary Johnny Cash has garnered a tremendous amount of admiration and always draws a crowd at the many art shows in which he participates.  Most recently, Bernard has been commissioned to paint a portrait of current Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal for the Governor’s Mansion in Baton Rouge.  In addition, Bernard painted a commissioned piece for Dr. Ray Authement as a retirement gift for his service to the University.  More on Bernard is available at http://www.bernardstudio.com/