The artwork “ASPEN” created by Alexander Calder in 1948 is a sculptural piece categorized within the Kinetic Art movement. This mobile sculpture exemplifies the innovative use of forms and balance that Calder was known for. It incorporates movement into its design, which is a hallmark of kinetic art where the art is, in some way, motion-based.
The sculpture consists of a large black disc with several white elements attached to it by rods, which rise above the disc at various heights. The rods are thin and appear to be made of metal, each holding a smaller white oval element at varied elevations, adding to the sense of balance and floating. Below the black disc, small red spherical weights are suspended, providing a striking color contrast to the black disc and white ovals and likely contributing to the delicate equilibrium of the entire structure. The base of the sculpture is made of wire or thin metal rods that are curved and intersect, providing a stable foundation for the mobile while maintaining a sense of lightness and openness. The use of primary shapes and a limited color palette of black, white, and red emphasizes Calder’s focus on abstract forms and visual harmony, which are characteristic of his work. The piece’s shadows and reflections would also play a significant role in its interaction with the surrounding space, making it a dynamic and engaging piece from various angles.
