A representation of the principal styles and themes that emerges from Harry Bertoia’s printmaking and structure work. The seventy-nine monotypes in this catalogue represent the principal styles and themes that emerged not only in Harry Bertoia's printmaking, but in his sculpture as well. June Kompass Nelson, author of Harry Bertoia, Sculptor, analyzes the graphic works and places them in the context of Bertoia's total oeuvre, with particular regard to their relationship with his sculpture. A teacher of metalwork and printmaking at the Cranbrook Academy of Arts in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, Bertoia began working in monotype in 1940—nearly a decade before his first attempts at sculpture—and continually returned to the medium until his death in 1978. Nelson's introduction, biographical material, and well-documented chronology contribute to the portrait of a Michigan artist of international repute who maintained his "regionalist sensibility".

The seventy-nine monotypes in this catalogue represent the principal styles and themes that emerged not only in Harry Bertoia's printmaking, but in his sculpture as well. June Kompass Nelson, author of Harry Bertoia, Sculptor, analyzes the graphic works and places them in the context of Bertoia's total oeuvre, with particular regard to their relationship with his sculpture. A teacher of metalwork and printmaking at the Cranbrook Academy of Arts in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, Bertoia began working in monotype in 1940--nearly a decade before his first attempts at sculpture--and continually returned to the medium until his death in 1978. Nelson's introduction, biographical material, and well-documented chronology contribute to the portrait of a Michigan artist of international repute who maintained his "regionalist sensibility".

The brilliant mid-century modern artist, Harry Bertoia (1915-1978), left a rich legacy of art and design, each with an intriguing history. And yet, while just about everyone has seen the Diamond Chair, few can identify Harry Bertoia as its designer. Even fewer recognize the Bertoia sculptures and other monumental pieces at various public venues. This important volume, illustrated with over 200 revealing photos, allows easy identification and appreciation of Bertoia's work. Written with insights that only a daughter could offer, this impressive book also reveals the complex man behind the fascinating art. Personal letters and family anecdotes offer a deep look into the life and motivations of this profound metal artist. Not only will readers get a peek at the behind-the-scenes skirmishes involved in making art, but will also gain insight into the philosophy as well as technical innovation of this dynamic artist.

The author's own critical analyses of individual pieces are based on direct observations made during trips to the various cities in which Bertoia's sculptures are located.

American sculptor, designer, print artist Harry Bertoia (1915-1978) made thousands of monoprints on rice paper to record his shape ideas. Many ultimately became the basis of sculptures during his forty-year career. Here over 1500 of his fascinating monoprints are presented with their identifying numbers and dimensions. The importance of these artworks to Bertoia's career is acknowledged. Contributions to the text from Bertoia's children present their feelings when they see these astounding images and recall the years of enthusiastic discussions with their father. The book adds an important volume to references about Harry Bertoia's work, which includes sculpture as commissions for institutions throughout America.