A captivating tale of artistic rediscovery unfolds as a rare sculpture, once thought lost, finds its new home in the heart of Detroit's iconic skyline. But here's the twist: this isn't just any sculpture.
The long-lost masterpiece, created by the celebrated artist Harry Bertoia, has been resurrected and now adorns the atrium of the Hudson's/General Motors headquarters.
The story begins in 1970 when Bertoia crafted two massive 'clouds' of brazed metal rods, a piece dubbed 'sunlit straw', for the Flint's Genesee Valley Center. But its journey took an unexpected turn when the mall was sold and renovated in 1980, and the sculpture disappeared from public view. Fast forward to 2017, and the sculpture was found in a derelict state in a basement, hidden away from the world.
General Motors, recognizing the significance of this discovery, took on the task of restoration. And what a labor of love it was! Natalie Morath, GM's lead archivist and curator, described the challenges of handling such a large sculpture that had been stored underground for years. It was a complex process, but with the help of Michigan-based conservation specialists, Flatlanders, the sculpture was meticulously restored to its original splendor.
But here's where it gets controversial—the decision to place the sculpture in the new Hudson's site. Morath reveals that it was initially considered for GM's Technical Center campus, but its size proved too grand. The Hudson's atrium, however, provided the perfect setting. The construction team had to get creative, unzipping the side of the building to move it in, a testament to their dedication.
This sculpture holds a special place in Detroit's history. Bertoia, a Detroit native, had deep roots in the city's art scene, studying at Cass Tech, College for Creative Studies, and Cranbrook. The piece was commissioned by J.L. Hudson for the Genesee Valley Mall, further solidifying its local significance. And the story comes full circle with the involvement of Bertoia's daughter, Celia, who runs the Bertoia Foundation to preserve her father's legacy.
Celia Bertoia's perspective adds depth to this tale. She recalls the sculpture's creation, a collaboration between her father and renowned architects, and its original hanging from a single point, a remarkable feat given its weight. The discovery in 2017 was a surprise, finding the sculpture bent and forgotten in a basement. But now, restored and on display, it's a triumph for the Bertoia Foundation and a chance for the public to reconnect with a lost treasure.
This story raises questions about the preservation of art and the role of corporations in safeguarding cultural heritage. Should companies like GM take on the responsibility of restoring and displaying such significant artworks? What does this mean for public access and the democratization of art? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let's explore the complexities of this captivating journey.
