La vache 1970

Alexander Calder made this sculpture, La Vache, from painted sheet metal, at an unknown date. Look at this fire-engine-red cow, fabricated from flat planes of metal, it’s as if Calder is constructing an image of a cow, rather than a sculpture, so it’s both 2-D and 3-D at the same time. The solid, blocky color gives it a graphic, almost cartoonish vibe. I love how the white horns jut out like paper cutouts, giving a sense of playful simplicity. Then there's the cow’s udders, hanging like little metal charms. Calder's ability to distill form down to its most essential elements reminds me of the work of Joan Miró. Both artists share a sense of whimsy and a talent for transforming everyday objects into something magical and unexpected. Isn't it amazing how a few carefully chosen shapes and colors can evoke an entire animal?