Untitled 67 1973

Alexander Calder made this untitled work in 1973. It’s a painting on paper, and it's got this bold red circle right in the center, surrounded by these chunky black shapes. The way Calder uses paint here is so direct. The black isn't trying to be anything other than black, thick and matte. It's confident, and unapologetically itself. This approach feels very Calder, thinking about his mobiles, and how he makes objects that are solid but playful. Look at how he’s signed the work and included his dedication, written in his unique hand, as if the words are yet more forms floating across the page. It’s like he’s having a conversation with the paper. In that way, it reminds me of Joan Miró, or maybe even Matisse, who are also so good at balancing spontaneity with a sense of overall design. Ultimately, this work is about how we can use simple gestures to create something that feels both grounded and full of potential movement.