The artwork titled “PARASITE,” created by artist Alexander Calder in 1947, is a prime example of Kinetic Art. This genre is notable for incorporating movement into the art piece, and one of the common forms it takes is that of a mobile. Calder’s work exudes a playful, dynamic energy as components of his creations are designed to move in response to air currents or touch.
As for the artwork depicted in the image, it features an abstract composition characterized by a central, anchored structure with free-hanging elements. The base appears to be a flat, triangular shape with cut-out circles, possibly made of sheet metal, which evokes a sense of stability and balance. From this base, a delicate, curving wire extends, from which further smaller elements—flat circular shapes with similar cut-outs and tiny spheres—are suspended. These elements are arranged in a way that suggests they are floating through space, providing the artwork with a whimsical, floating quality. The wire’s gentle, sinuous curve gives a sense of motion, and the entire piece likely alters its appearance subtly with the surrounding air movement. The composition balances geometric forms and organic lines, creating a sense of harmony and tension simultaneously. The material of the mobile itself and the manner in which it is suspended or balanced exemplify Calder’s innovative approach and contribute to the kinetic aspect of the piece, as these elements are intended to shift and change over time.
