A Guide To Alexander Calder: 10 Things To Know

1. Who is Alexander Calder?

Alexander Calder was a renowned American artist known for his pioneering work in the field of kinetic art. Born in 1898, Calder gained worldwide recognition for his unique sculptures and mobile artworks. His innovative use of abstract forms, bold colors, and organic shapes challenged traditional notions of sculpture and revolutionized the art world.

2. Early Life and Education

Calder was born into a family of artists in Lawnton, Pennsylvania. He initially studied mechanical engineering, receiving a degree from Stevens Institute of Technology in 1919. However, his passion for art led him to enroll at the Art Students League in New York City, where he studied painting, drawing, and sculpture. It was during this time that Calder began experimenting with wire sculpting, setting the foundation for his future artistic endeavors.

3. The Invention of the Mobile

One of Calder’s most significant contributions to the art world was the invention of the mobile. Inspired by the works of Piet Mondrian and Joan Miró, Calder began creating sculptures that could move and change shape with the circulation of air. These kinetic artworks, consisting of suspended geometric shapes and delicate wires, introduced a dynamic element into the traditionally static medium of sculpture.

4. The Stabile and Wire Sculptures

Apart from his mobiles, Calder also created another type of sculpture called “stabiles.” While mobiles were characterized by their movement, stabiles were static monumental artworks made from massive sheets of metal and painted in bright, eye-catching colors. These large-scale sculptures, often displayed in public spaces, convey a sense of strength and balance, despite their immense size. Additionally, Calder’s wire sculptures, which he referred to as “drawings in space,” captured the essence of his subjects in a minimal and fluid manner.

5. Influence on Modern Art

Calder’s innovative approach to sculpture made a profound impact on the development of modern art. His exploration of movement, form, and color influenced subsequent generations of artists, including Jean Tinguely, who created whimsical kinetic sculptures, and Claes Oldenburg, famous for his oversized pop art sculptures. Many contemporary sculptors continue to draw inspiration from Calder’s groundbreaking works, acknowledging his instrumental role in pushing the boundaries of traditional sculpture.

6. Major Works

Among Calder’s most notable works is his large-scale mobile, “The Calder Mercury Fountain” (1937), which he created for the Spanish Pavilion at the Paris International Exposition. This creation attracted significant attention due to its innovative use of unconventional materials, such as mercury. Additionally, Calder’s sculpture “La Grande Vitesse” (1969) in Grand Rapids, Michigan, represents one of his iconic stabile works, showcasing his ability to balance scale and bold design.

7. Recognition and Legacy

Throughout his career, Calder received numerous accolades for his contributions to art. In 1964, he became the first artist to receive the National Medal of Arts from the U.S. government. His works are showcased in prestigious museums and galleries around the world, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York City and the Tate Gallery in London. Calder’s legacy as an artistic visionary continues to inspire generations of artists and art enthusiasts.

8. Public Art Installations

Calder’s artwork is not limited to museums and galleries; his sculptures can be found in public spaces worldwide. Many cities, such as Chicago, Paris, and Barcelona, house large-scale Calder sculptures that have become iconic landmarks. These monumental artworks engage with their surroundings, enhancing the urban landscape and providing accessible art for everyone to enjoy.

9. Collections and Exhibitions

Numerous permanent collections and exhibitions are dedicated to showcasing Calder’s work. The Calder Foundation, established in 1987, preserves and promotes the artist’s legacy. The foundation supports research, organizes exhibitions, and provides essential resources for scholars, curators, and enthusiasts interested in exploring Calder’s career and artistic vision.

10. Further Reading and Resources

If you wish to delve deeper into Alexander Calder’s life and work, here are some useful resources to explore:
– The Calder Foundation: https://www.calder.org/
– Museum of Modern Art: https://www.moma.org/artists/862
– Tate Gallery: https://www.tate.org.uk/art/artists/alexander-calder-858
– National Gallery of Art: https://www.nga.gov/collection/artist-info.937.html
– Smithsonian American Art Museum: https://americanart.si.edu/artist/alexander-calder-700/sculptures

By exploring these resources, you can gain a deeper understanding of Alexander Calder’s artistic contributions and immerse yourself in the captivating world of kinetic sculpture.