“BELT,” created circa 1935 by artist Alexander Calder, belongs to the Expressionism movement and is categorized as a piece of jewelry design. This artwork showcases Calder’s foray into wearable art, which is an extension of his expressionist aesthetic, known for prioritizing emotional experience over physical reality.
Describing the artwork, it appears to be a handcrafted belt featuring Calder’s signature abstract and whimsical forms. The belt is composed of a series of interconnected spiral and circular elements, created with a metal that has been twisted and shaped into organic forms. These metallic sections are adorned with bits of colorful fabric or yarn, adding a tactile and vibrant quality to the piece. The use of unconventional materials and the emphasis on form and movement are indicative of Calder’s innovative approach to art, transcending traditional boundaries and mediums. The colors – notably in what seem to be red and purple hues – give the piece an added layer of expression and visual interest, underscoring the expressionist influence of conveying emotion through color and shape.
