“La Grande Vitesse” is a sculpture created by artist Alexander Calder in 1969. This work is part of the Abstract Expressionism movement and stands as a notable example of Calder’s contributions to public art and sculpture during that era.
The artwork featured here is a large, vibrant orange structure, characteristic of Calder’s bold style and his use of abstract shapes. The sculpture’s title, which translates to “the great swiftness” or “the grand rapids,” complements its dynamic form and the sense of movement conveyed through its sweeping curves and arches. The work is constructed from sheet metal, bolted and painted in a bright orange color that stands out against the backdrop of a largely neutral-toned urban setting with a high-rise building in the background and public seating in the vicinity. The stark contrast between the organic, fluid forms of the sculpture and the geometric, rigid architecture around it creates a visually arresting environment. The sculpture’s placement in a public space suggests that it is meant for interaction and engagement with its audience, providing a focal point around which community life can revolve.
