Harold Rittenberry Jr. bends and shapes scrap metal — fragments and remnants others might discard — into something exquisite and thought-provoking.
A resident of Athens, Rittenberry primarily focuses on sculpting now, though he has been crafting art since childhood.
“Art has always been a passion of mine,” he mentioned. “Life is brimming with art. I appreciate all forms, and I strive to explore all of them.”
In his formative years, this included sketching and painting. Although he still experiments with those mediums, he currently predominately works with steel. These substantial metal sculptures are designed to convey beauty while narrating a tale.
Recently, Rittenberry’s artistry and the significant works he has crafted were acknowledged with the President’s Fulfilling the Dream Award. This accolade was presented at the Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Breakfast on January 17, honoring students, faculty, staff, and community members who embody the ideals and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
“Your body needs food to survive, but your mind is nourished by art,” he expressed. “Learning is a continuous journey, and art is a vital part of that.”
Two of Rittenberry’s latest masterpieces are located in the courtyard of the newly renovated Holmes-Hunter Academic Building. He was commissioned to design two benches in tribute to Hamilton Holmes and Charlayne Hunter-Gault, the first African American students to enroll at the University of Georgia. These benches hold special significance for Rittenberry, as he recalls walking downtown and witnessing Holmes and Hunter-Gault arriving in front of the Arch to register for classes in 1961, marking the university’s integration.
“Some individuals sculpt using hammers and chisels. I sculpt with fire,” he remarked.
Harold Rittenberry Jr. creates benches for the Hunter-Holmes Academic Building. (Photo by Dorothy Kozlowski/UGA)
Rittenberry initially began working with steel spontaneously, soon discovering his passion for metal and fire. The material can be challenging, but he relishes the adventure of uncovering what the sculpture will evolve into.
“It’s like solving a mystery. It’s akin to a judge or a lawyer trying to crack a case. You strive not to waste it; you aim to utilize every piece of material,” he explained.
Consider an old plow, for instance. Under Rittenberry’s craftsmanship, it could transform into a stunning bird or even a flower.
“You can transform something that was once harmful and infuse it with light. It can become a beacon,” he noted. “That’s the essence of art.”
Rittenberry’s creations can be found throughout Athens and beyond. Locally, his artwork is displayed at Memorial Park’s Bear Hollow Zoo, Sandy Creek Nature Center, the West Broad School, Rocksprings Park and Community Center, Piedmont College’s Athens campus, the Georgia Museum of Art, the Lyndon House Arts Center, the Athens-Clarke County Library, and Brooklyn Cemetery. He also has works showcased in Atlanta and internationally in Europe and Canada.
Beyond enlightening and motivating others, Rittenberry aspires for his work to bring joy and elevate people’s spirits.
“I might be out one day gazing at the sky and spot something or stroll down the street and notice something that catches my eye. Perhaps while having lunch, someone’s dish might inspire a creation,” he shared. “It’s just a necessity for me.”
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