Alexander Calder (1898-1976) was an American artist credited with inventing the kinetic sculpture we know as the mobile in 1931. That name actually came from Calder’s friend, Marcel Duchamp.

This artist was born into a family of artists and was educated at The Art Students League of New York. At some point in his art exploration and discovery he came upon the idea of drawing in the air and embracing the chance of air’s movement. He is referred to by many as the man that made modern art move.

Untitled, 1976 was designed for the central court of the east building of the National Gallery. It is 29 feet by 76 feet. It was completed and installed after Calder’s death.

Alexander Calder refused to analyze and interpret his work. He was focused only on his collaboration with metal and color; space and movement. His pieces do seem to be lessons in embracing chance and change and discovering beauty in these. We each can find our own meaning in the balanced and moving prompts he created.

We again give thanks to God for the artists of every time and place and medium. We give thanks for God’s gifts of inspiration and presence, bidden or not bidden.

In gratitude, faith and hope,