Harry Bertoia is served food by a costumed man at the Cranbrook Academy of Art folk dancing party. December, 1940. Cranbrook Archives.

Cranbrook Academy of Art students may come to Michigan for their MFAs, but they seem to become masters of throwing great parties during their time here as well. One such shindig was the “Folk Dancing Party,” held in 1940 and shown here. Harry Bertoia, sculptor and furniture designer, sits in a suit while a costumed man serves him food. Lederhosen and hors d’oeuvres – a unique combination for a unique evening.

– Shoshana Resnikoff, Collections Fellow