Fêtes #2 1971

Editor: Here we have Alexander Calder’s “Fêtes #2” from 1971. It’s a stencil in acrylic paint—very striking. It has a wonderful energy about it, this single sinuous form against the brilliant green… what do you make of it? Curator: Oh, it zings, doesn't it? I find Calder utterly playful, and yet there’s always this underlying seriousness, wouldn't you agree? Like a jazz solo, all improvisation on a structured form. This particular form feels like a dance, almost. Look at the way the line coils back on itself, creating pockets of negative space…It’s like a visual breath. Does it bring anything to mind? Editor: It sort of reminds me of a winding river... or maybe even a rollercoaster track. Curator: Ooh, a rollercoaster! I love that. Yes, a feeling of movement arrested, poised to launch again. And notice the stencil technique; it’s clean, almost mechanical, but then the hand of the artist comes through. Little imperfections around the edges…it's beautifully human. Do you think that tension between the organic and the manufactured informs his playfulness? Editor: That’s a great point! The imperfections give it such character. Curator: Absolutely. He winks at us, inviting us to find the joy in simplicity and the beauty in the unexpected. It’s such a joyous piece that makes you smile inside. It's one person's dance in simple lines. Editor: Definitely food for thought – or rather, perhaps, a reason to smile? I will not look at rollercoasters the same way. Thanks for sharing that unique insight!