Red Faced Moon 1973

Alexander Calder made this gouache, Red Faced Moon, in 1973. The palette is bold and graphic, and the marks are made in a way that feels both playful and precise, like watching a jazz musician improvise. It’s all about the process, right? The red moon, almost cartoonish with its eye and teeth, is painted with flat, opaque color. The black outline gives it a real punch. Next to it, a blue star with jagged edges seems to be shouting or singing, with a raw energy that’s just thrilling. I love how Calder doesn’t try to hide the brushstrokes; they’re right there, part of the story. Calder’s work, with its simple shapes and strong colors, always reminds me a bit of Joan Miró. They both have this way of making the abstract feel totally alive. This piece isn't trying to nail down any one meaning. Instead, it invites you to bring your own imagination.