Saucers and Spirals 1973

Alexander Calder gave us ‘Saucers and Spirals’ in 1973, using paint to make flat shapes that still somehow feel like they're floating around. I love how he simplifies everything down to these basic forms and colors – it’s like he’s showing us the bones of the universe. Looking closely, you can see how the paint isn't trying to hide itself. It's laid down pretty directly; you get the sense that Calder was interested in the doing, the act of painting, more than some kind of polished end result. Take that black spiral – it's not perfect, but the wobble in the lines makes it feel alive, like it’s vibrating right there on the canvas. Calder's work, especially these later paintings, always makes me think of Miró. There’s that same playfulness and joy in simple shapes and colors. It's a reminder that art doesn't always have to be serious or complicated to be meaningful. It can be a visual playground, and we’re all invited to come and play.