JUDITH PESTRONK American, active New York, 1924-2024 SET FOUR HAND-CRAFTED STERLING SILVER INSECTS: GRASSHOPPER, SCORPION, BEETLE, AND FLYING BEETLE Each signed and inscribed "sterling" Longest, L: 9 in. Wt. 14 troy oz. $1,200-1,800
ARTIST PROFILE: Judith Pestronk was a distinguished artist and educator who held a B.A. in History and Art History from Vassar College and an M.F.A. in Fine Arts Education from Teachers College, Columbia University. Her extensive technical background included studying sculpture at the Boston Museum School of Fine Arts under John Alexander, as well as with William Zorach and John Hovannes, and drawing with Marshal Glasier at the Art Students League of NY; she furthered her expertise in jewelry and metalwork at both Columbia and the 92nd St Y. In addition to her creative practice, she was a significant figure in arts administration, serving as Trustee and 1st Vice President of the Nassau County Museum of Fine Arts, where she chaired the Acquisitions Committee. Between 1964 and 2009, she served as an adjunct professor at Nassau Community College, teaching a broad range of subjects including Sculpture, 3D Design, and Art History, while also extending her lectures to the Long Beach Library and Medical Center. An award-winning educator and recipient of the Distinguished Faculty Achievement Award, she supported the next generation through a dedicated 3D-work scholarship she established in 2005. As a versatile artist who worked in media ranging from steel and stone to precious metal clay and fused glass, her work remains held in private and museum collections worldwide.
