“Calder’s Circus” is a mixed media installation created by Alexander Calder between 1926 and 1931. Blending elements of Expressionism with Kinetic Art, the artwork is part of the “Circus” series and is currently housed at the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City. The piece falls under the genres of installation and mobile, highlighting Calder’s innovative approach to movement in art.
The artwork itself depicts a miniature circus scene. The installation is an assemblage of various materials, creating a playful and dynamic environment. At the center is a circular performance area with a colorful, patterned floor. Around and in the ring, there are numerous figures, including acrobats, animals, and circus performers, crafted with a great deal of whimsy and creativity. The figures are made from wire, fabric, and other found objects, exhibiting Calder’s ability to transform everyday materials into lively, engaging sculptures. The circus theme is emphasized by the presence of tents and flags, which add to the festive atmosphere. The entire scene is carefully arranged to evoke the excitement and chaos of a live circus performance. The artwork has an interactive performance element to it, as Calder would actually manipulate the figures to ‘perform’ in front of an audience, further enhancing the kinetic aspect of his work.
