American

Harry Bertoia

U.S. 1915-1979
Sound Sculpture 74.0001

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Harry Bertoia felt that most art was looked at or listened to too quickly. His many "tonal pieces," as he called them are meant to be experienced by the viewer. A gentle touch produces a wind chime effect similar to the sounds of cathedral bells that Bertoia remembers as a boy growing up in a small Italian village on a day of great celebration. The artist immigrated to America in 1930, settling in Detroit. He went on to Cranbrook Academy, a well known design school in Michigan and focused on design--of graphics, jewelry, and furniture, as well as on sculpture. He designed the now famous metal chair which is named after him and is also known for his many outdoor public sculpture commissions.

 

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