A long-lost masterpiece by renowned artist Harry Bertoia has been rediscovered and restored, now adorning the atrium of Detroit's new Hudson's/General Motors headquarters. This striking mid-century sculpture, originally commissioned for Flint's Genesee Valley Center in 1970, was thought to be lost for decades. It features two large "clouds" of brazed metal rods, a design inspired by "sunlit straw."
The sculpture's disappearance from public view began with the mall's sale and renovation in 1980. In 2017, it was found in a derelict state in the basement of Southfield's Northland Mall. General Motors took on the restoration project, working with Michigan-based conservation specialists. The artwork now hangs in the atrium, a location deemed ideal for its size and scale.
GM's lead archivist and curator, Natalie Morath, shared the challenges and triumphs of the restoration process. She recalled the sculpture's discovery in 2018 or 2019, when it was in two separate pieces and in rough shape. Morath and her team were able to confirm its authenticity with Celia Bertoia, Harry's daughter, who runs the Bertoia Foundation. They contacted Flatlanders, the conservation specialists, for the restoration, ensuring the sculpture's safe transport and preservation.
Initially, GM considered placing the sculpture at its Technical Center campus in Warren, home to another Bertoia masterpiece. However, the newly discovered sculpture's size proved too large for that site. When the Hudson's project emerged, the atrium's renderings seemed like a perfect fit. The construction team generously adapted the building to accommodate the sculpture, creating a unique installation.
Morath expressed her excitement about the acquisition, emphasizing its significance. She highlighted GM's role as a custodian of exceptional artwork at the Technical Center campus, including the Alexander Calder water ballet and Charles Scheeler's painting. The Bertoia sculpture, with its connection to J.L. Hudson and Detroit's artistic heritage, adds another layer of meaning.
Harry Bertoia, who passed away from lung cancer in 1978, left a lasting legacy. His daughter, Celia, runs a foundation in Utah dedicated to protecting and advancing his artistic vision. She described the sculpture as "very important," a collaboration between various artists and architects in 1970. The sculpture's original hanging from a single point is a testament to its design and craftsmanship.
The discovery of the sculpture in 2017 sparked a journey of restoration and rediscovery. Celia Bertoia expressed her joy at seeing the piece in a public space, accessible to all. She hopes this restoration inspires the appreciation of other hidden artistic treasures.
