The Calder exhibit with nearly forty original works spanning from 1927 through the mid-1970’s, illustrates his fascination with balance. Sculptures and mobiles both heavy and light, thick and thin, delicate and sturdy. Large glob-like shapes with the narrowest, most delicate strands of metal hazardously assembled. Interestingly enough, some of his first works were wooden push and pull toys, created in 1927. You can see the originals at the Berkshire Museum.
As parents we buy the obligatory mobile to amuse our babies. Certainly most of us would not be able to afford an original (nor have the appropriate space to display) so what can we get away with in our own space? Here are some Calder-esque mobiles from the Hanging Mobile Gallery for you to consider.
From left to right:
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I don't think anyone would have a problem "getting away" with a Calder mobile -- unless you mean "making a getaway" with one. :-)
view Lisa (Montreal)'s profile
We really love seeing the Alexander Calder mobiles in museums and recently hung a CB2 version in our tall skylight. It adds a nice touch.
view human typewriter's profile
Love the mobiles.
Now who is in charge of deleting inappropriate comments?
view sassydo's profile
We caught an exhibit of his work last summer at the Centre Pompidou. The mobiles are amazing, playful, and dance so well in air currents. His wire face sculptures are even more incredible, although I suppose they won't be licensing them anytime in the future.
view ehy2k's profile
To the charge person: Thank you!
view sassydo's profile
If you like Mobiles check out Julie Frith on Etsy. I bought a table top mobile for my hubby two years ago for Christmas. He loves it! If you want to see some more of Calder's great work go to the Hirshhorn Museum in Smithsonian complex.
view Healeygirl's profile
There are some pretty cool ones here too: http://www.am-living.com/home/aml/smartlist_58/art_mobile.html
view nboxwell's profile