Le Tourniquet 1973

Alexander Calder created this gouache on paper titled 'Le Tourniquet' in 1973. The spiral form is at once playful and forceful. Calder's work is known for its engagement with movement, defying the static nature traditionally associated with sculpture. Made in the USA, the artwork exists in a time of evolving cultural and political landscapes. The use of geometric shapes and bold colors reflects the influence of abstract expressionism and a broader shift away from representational art. But how does it challenge existing social norms? Well, Calder's artistic journey began at the fringes of academic art. To better understand the artwork, we can look to the artist's background. Information about the history of abstract expressionism might also offer a valuable lens through which to examine the cultural forces at play. What does the artwork say about the social and political context in which it was created, and how does it engage with the institutions of art?