Alexander Calder (1898 – 1976) was an American sculptor known as the originator of the mobile, a type of moving sculpture made with delicately balanced or suspended shapes that move in response to touch or air currents.

He created between 1926 and 1931 a miniature circus called Calder’s circus.

Calder used various items (wire, fabrics, wood…) and created animals (lion, sea lion, horses, dogs…) accessories ( the circus’ tent) and characters (clown, trapeze, contortionist…). He animated all of them with mechanisms and tricks. He realized also a video showing all the show with sound effect. Calder, like a puppeteer, made alive the circus in front of camera and created a wonderful show.

This unique workshop will mix artistic and mechanical activities, the students will learn the principle of complex mechanical systems (cranksaft, gear, pulley etc…) and will use these skills to create their own circus figures made of wood and wires.

Inspired by Calder universe and experimentations, the students will adapt the mechanical circus to their own time and add electronic circuit for light and motion.

More information：

Date : The 2nd-6th of Oct.2017

Time：10：00 am-16：00 pm （Bring your own lunch)

Location: Sanlitun

Age group : +9 years old

Price:3800/week

Teacher : Louise and Guillaume