“Just as one can compose colors or forms, so one can compose motions”
Alexander Calder 1933
Linear Forms Create the Arcs for Mobiles
- Observe Calder’s Wire Studies and Student Wire Studies on Open Lab
- Lines Partner Space 3 Dimensionally.
- Differentiate the Linear Form from the Planar, Solid, Modular and Hollow Studies
Calder’s Mobile in the National Gallery Combines Linear and Planar Forms
Movement Patterns of a Feather Responding to Wind and Suspended as a Weathervane, Reveal the Structure of a Calder mobile
Understanding how the weathervane is related to the mobile design
The Mobile Project (3 Tiers)
- Concepts of balance, surfaces that catch the wind and distances from pivot points influence the design
- Movement and Shapes
- Show Calder’s Technique for attaching the wire and shapes.
- Demonstrate finding balance of arcs, then forming a central loop or a tied glued attachment. Emphasize the importance of securing the attachments.
Materials
- Wire or Wood to create the arcs
- Use of a Light weight forms to Fly with the Wind
- Wire Pliers (Round Nose, Needle Nose and Wire Cutters are Shown Demonstrate using round nose pliers to form loops, and cutting with needle nose pliers.
- Pushpins or Sewing Needles make holes. Thread, String or Monofilament (Fishing Line) for suspension. Crazy Glue secures Knots.
Ruth’s Mobile Paper, Wire
Talia’s Mobile Paper, Wood, Wire
Heidi and Geneva’s Mobile (Spring 2017)