Gold Square by Henry Halem

A tiny gold square glows at the center of Henry Halem's Gold Square, surrounded by successive fields of gray, brilliant red, black, and a vigorously scratched surface. The composition is deceptively simple: part painting, part glass object, and part meditation on color, texture, and precious material.

Halem occupies an important place in the history of American studio glass. He studied with Harvey Littleton at the University of Wisconsin, founded the glass program at Kent State University, taught there for 29 years, and was a founder -- and the first president -- of the Glass Art Society. Generations of artists know him not only through his artwork, but also through his influential teaching and writing.

For PGC collectors, there is another connection: Halem was honored at one of Pittsburgh Glass Center's earliest Meltdown events. This is a chance to own a work by someone who helped build the field itself.

Dimensions (in. WxHxD): 16 x 16 x 2

Learn more about the artist at www.henryhalem.com

The Live Auction will take place Sep. 18 at 8pm ET. Bid live at the event, place bids online via Live Auctioneers, or submit absentee bids by contacting Heather McElwee at 412-365-2145 or heather@pittsburghglasscenter.org.