Alexander Calder was a pioneering American artist, renowned for his kinetic "mobiles" and monumental "stabiles". He broke with traditional sculpture by using wire, metal, and other lightweight materials, bringing his works literally and figuratively to life.
His lifelong friendship with Joan Miró greatly influenced his artistic vision and contributed to his unique approach to form and space. Calder is recognized worldwide as a pioneer of kinetic art and one of the most important abstract artists of the 20th century. While best known for his mobiles, his practice also encompassed standing sculpture, painting, set and costume design, large-scale public installation, and jewelry-making.