L'Acier du Constructeur

1965 . Lithograph in colours, circa 1965, on Rives paper, signed in pencil, from the edition of 75, published by Mourlot, Paris, 55.9 x 75.6 cm. (22 x 29¾ in.)
Although widely known as a sculptor, Alexander Calder (1898-1976) was also a prolific printmaker. This lithograph, spotlights Calder's Futurist style, a style that is more closely associated with his sculpture and highlights his talent across mediums. It accurately captures Calder's precision, but also his freedom in terms of composition. Large geometric strokes across the plate, alongside a lopsided palette of red, black and white takes Calder's iterations of Futurism, which are so often found in his sculpture, and creates a print that encapsulates his spirit.
Calder received many accolades throughout his life, including the American Medal of Freedom, and deservedly so. His great influence on Futurism, Constructivism, Minimalism and American art in general is widely accepted, but perhaps most notably is the recognition he has received from within the art world. Amongst several honorary doctorates from top U.S universities, is a U.N. Peace Medal, Honorary Citizenship of Chicago and major awards such as the Grand Prix National des Art et Lettres. Calder was truly a 20th Century Master.