Tattooed Man 1970

Alexander Calder made this drawing, Tattooed Man, in 1970 with what looks like black marker on paper. The bold lines are kind of relentless and hypnotic, giving this man a powerful presence. It's not just a picture; it’s a statement. Look at the way Calder uses the marker, so direct and immediate. The lines are thick and confident. The spirals in the eyes give a sense of depth. This isn't about subtle details; it’s about making a strong, graphic impression. There’s a real physicality to the drawing, a sense that Calder was really present, just letting the image flow right out of him. Notice the mouth area. The line is much more free and playful. Those little loops and swirls break up the otherwise rigid lines and bring a sense of humour to the piece. Calder is best known for his mobiles, and this drawing reminds me of how he would play with line and space in three dimensions. He wasn't afraid to embrace ambiguity, and this piece invites us to do the same.