Born in Nijmegen, Netherlands, Berend Strik studied at the Rijksakademie van beeldende kunsten in Amsterdam. He emerged as a significant figure in contemporary Dutch art through his experimental approach to the photographic medium, often challenging the traditional boundaries between photography, painting, and textile art.

Strik is best recognized for his signature technique of sewing directly into photographic prints. By adding layers of fabric, embroidery, and stitching, he obscures and highlights specific details, creating a tactile, sculptural quality that alters the viewer's perception of the original image. His work frequently explores themes of architecture, portraiture, and the nature of memory.

His work has been widely exhibited in international institutions and is included in major collections, including the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam. Recent discourse surrounding his practice often highlights his long-standing association with the Dutch contemporary art scene and his influence on the evolution of mixed-media photography.