Sculptor in Metal, Val Bertoia, engineers Sculpture, Gongs & Sounding Sculpture, as well as Restorations since the 1970s while learning his metalworking position from working the last 7 years alongside his father, iconic Harry Bertoia. Val's work in father's original Bertoia Studio and his works can be found in many private collections, institutions, galleries and auction houses. He asks, 'Do you have a favorite?' and if you chose a rod piece, a gong or otherwise; he then states, 'My favorite is people, without people there's no Art. When asking Melissa about etching his bronze sounding gong, the rest was history. Ever since, they found a new relationship to collaborate apropos to a contribution in legacy and longevity familiar to the 'Bertoia' philosophy.
Intaglio Print Sculptress, Melissa Strawser, works independently alongside Val Bertoia for 27 years. She can be found assisting in Bertoia restorations and studio practice. Raised in one family setting of Pennsylvania folk artists, her studio practice, like Val's, was taught from childhood onwards. She is 4th generation artist then trained in London with experimental printmaking maestros and artists. Inspired by science with art, she loves colorful organic forms of flora and fauna; rooted by her PA German folk heritage with everyday art. Natural elements & themes, often of dreams & synesthesia inspire her commitment to making art. Her works are found in private collections, institutions, galleries and her alma mater, 'Slade School of Art Museum'