Yellow Dentifrice 1944

This drawing by Alexander Calder is all about the interplay of bold colours and those spiralling shapes. The red, blue, yellow, and white, are divided by these graphic black lines. I wonder if Calder had something specific in mind? Maybe he was thinking about how we make sense of ourselves and each other? Or was he simply trying to capture an emotion, an attitude, in the most direct way possible? I can see Calder experimenting with these shapes and lines, probably going through multiple iterations. The paint is applied directly, with few visible brushstrokes, so I'm imagining him making quick, confident decisions. Look at the way those simple, swirling forms create a sense of volume and depth. For me, this piece embodies the spirit of play that characterizes so much of Calder’s work, from his wire sculptures to his mobiles. In painting, as in life, we build upon the discoveries of those who came before us, constantly learning and growing through our interactions with each other's work.