Harry Bertoia's Sonambience

Published on October 14, 2023

Join us for a special presentation about Harry Bertoia and his "Sonambient" sculptures on Tuesday, October 17th at 7:00pm. 

Harry Bertoia was an Italian-American artist whose career wound through sculpture, modern furniture design, and, finally, sound sculpture. In the early 1970s, Bertoia invited Morris County residents Miriam and Jeffrey Eger to document his groundbreaking work in "sonambient" sculpture.  The Egers spent two cold, snowy days with Bertoia in his "Sonambient Barn" in Pennsylvania, recording the artist playing and discussing the collection.

Every sounding sculpture Bertoia made is unique. Thousands of sounding sculptures, ranging from six inches to twenty feet, produce all kinds of tones; he created different sounds and visual forms by varying the type of metal, configuration of rods, or overall sculptural shape. With the help of his musically inclined brother Oreste, Bertoia recorded these sounds in his home studio barn in the 1970s.

This program will include a brief documentary of Harry Bertoia playing and discussing the Sonambient collection; an opportunity for attendees to view, play, and listen to several original Bertoia sculptures and remarks by the Egers.

For more information about Harry Bertoia, please visit the Harry Bertoia Foundation website. 

This program is suitable for ages 12 and up. Please note that children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. 

Please note that while registration is not required, seating is limited and will be available on a first come, first served basis.

For questions or concerns please contact the Programs and Outreach at (973) 285-6933 or by email at amizera@co.morris.nj.us