Alexander Calder is an American sculptor and a pioneer of kinetic art, famous for his mobiles and stabiles. Born in Lawnton, Pennsylvania, Calder grew up in a family of artists. After studying mechanical engineering, he turned to art and moved to Paris in 1926. There, he created his first wire sculptures, representing animal and human figures with great economy of means. In 1931, Calder invented the mobile, a suspended sculpture with abstract forms, animated by air currents. This innovation revolutionized modern sculpture by introducing movement as a central element of the work. His stabiles, large static metal sculptures, also explore the balance and dynamics of forms in space. Calder's art, imbued with poetry and lightness, is inspired by nature and organic forms. His monumental works, such as "Flamingo" in Chicago or "Man" in Montreal, have become iconic urban landmarks. Throughout his career, Calder exhibited worldwide and received prestigious awards. His influence on 20th-century art is considerable, paving the way for new forms of sculptural expression.
Alexander Calder is an American sculptor and a pioneer of kinetic art, famous for his mobiles and stabiles. Born in Lawnton, Pennsylvania, Calder grew up in a family of artists. After studying mechanical engineering, he turned to art and moved to Paris in 1926. There, he created his first wire sculptures, representing animal and human figures with great economy of means. In 1931, Calder invented the mobile, a suspended sculpture with abstract forms, animated by air currents. This innovation revolutionized modern sculpture by introducing movement as a central element of the work. His stabiles, large static metal sculptures, also explore the balance and dynamics of forms in space. Calder's art, imbued with poetry and lightness, is inspired by nature and organic forms. His monumental works, such as "Flamingo" in Chicago or "Man" in Montreal, have become iconic urban landmarks. Throughout his career, Calder exhibited worldwide and received prestigious awards. His influence on 20th-century art is considerable, paving the way for new forms of sculptural expression.