Dots, Stripes, Curliques 1974

This is “Dots, Stripes, Curliques,” created by Alexander Calder in 1974, and is a great example of how everyday materials can be transformed into high art. Calder uses gouache on paper, a departure from his more famous mobiles. But even with these commonplace materials, he brings a sculptural sensibility to the page. The shapes feel cut from sheet metal, each retaining its own autonomy, while also contributing to the overall composition. The painting reminds us that Calder was trained as an engineer, more than as a painter. Note the confident way he uses color and line, giving a sense of improvisation, while also suggesting careful planning. There's a wonderful tension here, between the handmade gesture and industrial fabrication. Ultimately, Calder’s art invites us to think about how materials, processes, and context shape our understanding, blurring traditional lines between art and craft.