Have you heard of the Italian artist Harry Bertoia? I hadn’t, but am so glad I was introduced to his eclectic works by none other than his daughter, Celia Bertoia, who runs the Harry Bertoia Foundation right here in St. George. Harry Bertoia was a renowned Mid Century Modern Italian artist whose favorite medium was metal. During the war, when metal was scarce, he created prints, which he called monotypes. A prolific and selfless artist, Harry Bertoia preferred not to title or sign his art because it came from “the great Oneness,” and he wanted the audience to experience it and interpret it freely.
From jewelry to chairs and sculptures—especially his mesmerizing “Sonambient” sounding sculptures (check out the videos and learn more)—his artistry fascinates and engages on all levels: visual, tactile, and auditory.
A few of Harry Bertoia’s notable artistic achievements
- Wedding rings for the artist Ray Eames and his wife
- The iconic 1952 Diamond Chair for Knoll—a staple of 1950s modern furniture—
- 50 large-scale public commissions
- The Sonambient Barn
[Pictures of the artist and his works courtesy of the Harry Bertoia Foundation.]
While all his artwork is compelling, the “Sonambient” sounding sculptures drew me in the most. I love that Harry Bertoia coined the term sonambient (Latin root words for sound and environment) to refer to his sound sculptures (varying in size from delicate rods to thunderous gongs up to 10 feet in diameter). I immediately connected to their natural shapes and movement—some evocative of reeds and cattails, swaying in the breeze. Celia was gracious enough to treat me to a private concert/sound bath, playing each sculpture into a splendid symphony. The deeply resonant tones of the sculptures struck chords of connection in my soul. The experience made an indelible imprint on me – as if the sounds of the tonals are still reverberating through me. What beautiful gifts this selfless artist left us. Grateful to him and his daughter, Celia, for preserving his legacy.
Learn more about Harry Bertoia, his artwork, and his life.
If you’re in the Saint George area, stop by the Harry Bertoia Foundation. You’re invited to Harry Bertoia’s Birthday Bash at the Foundation, March 10, 12-4. 1449 N. 1400 W #11, Saint George, UT 435-673-2355
Bang one of Harry’s gongs at Red Hills Desert Garden, 375 E Red Hills Parkway, St George, UT.
Check out the Harry Bertoia: Master of Metal Documentary.
On the Loose Live 