Object Image

Tom's Cubicle

Alexander Calder is internationally known for his monumental sculptures known as mobiles and stabiles. Tom's Cubicle is an excellent example of the latter and is a metal-plate construction using a simple nut-and-bolt joining system. Arching, arabesque forms energize the sculpture and reveal Calder's famous sense of humor, playfulness and sheer delight with the world. The form of Tom's Cubicle may be read as a whimsical, imaginary animal moving forward on its seven legs. "Tom" refers to Tom Messer, director of New York's Guggenheim Museum at the time when the sculpture was first exhibited there in 1967.

Gift of the Friends of Art

1967
Painted steel
120.0 x 144.0 x 84.0 in
F69-7
Text: The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, 2023
Image: Calder Foundation, New York / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York

Where you'll find this

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Permanent collection

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