Under the Big Top with Alexander Calder

Before the world fell in love with Alexander Calder's innovative and abstract mobiles, this twentieth century American sculptor was immersed in a much smaller scale project, but one grand in detail—his miniature circus. While largely marginalized by historians, Calder's Circus helps one piece together his story and how the subtle movements of animals, idea of motion and fascination with construction all started several years before he began to build the larger sculptures for which he is internationally known today. At its core, Calder's work is about play and movement. Calder's Circus, constructed in Paris from 1926-1931, is the foundation from which these themes came to life and forever inspired his subsequent creative works. Analyzing his early years, including parental influence and technical schooling, helps frame his ascension to legendary abstract sculptor. This thesis discusses the significance of the circus and how Calder's lifelong passion for animals, movement, and the big top influenced his creative expression.