Alexander Calder (1898–1976) was an American sculptor and painter best known for his innovative kinetic sculptures and mobiles. Born in Lawnton, Pennsylvania, he grew up in a creative family; his mother was a painter and his father a sculptor. Calder studied engineering at the Stevens Institute of Technology before pursuing art, eventually attending the Art Students League in New York.
Calder's early work included traditional sculptures, but he gained prominence in the 1930s with his mobiles—dynamic sculptures that moved with air currents. He also created large-scale stabiles, which are stationary sculptures characterized by their bold forms and colors. His work often reflects a fascination with movement and balance, employing materials like metal, wire, and found objects.
In addition to his sculptures, Calder was known for his work in painting and lithography, often integrating his distinct aesthetic into various media. His contributions to modern art have had a lasting impact, influencing generations of artists and establishing him as a key figure in 20th-century art. Calder's playful yet sophisticated approach to form and movement continues to resonate in contemporary art today.