Hanging Spirals 1970

Alexander Calder made this striking composition, "Hanging Spirals", using simple paints on paper. These are unassuming materials, but that's precisely the point. Calder was interested in bringing a playful, spontaneous energy to his work. The flat application of bright colors – reds, oranges, yellows, blues – gives the piece a graphic punch. The black lines dance across the surface, connecting the various shapes and creating a sense of movement, much like his famous mobiles. But let's not be fooled by the apparent simplicity. Calder's genius lies in his ability to balance these elements, creating a dynamic composition that is both visually stimulating and intellectually engaging. He's not trying to trick us with fancy materials or techniques. Instead, he invites us to appreciate the beauty of basic forms and colors, and to find joy in the simple act of looking. In doing so, he elevates the everyday to the level of art, blurring the lines between the studio and the world around us.