Sunday, January 26, 2014

Jeddah Art Week - Colorful Sculptures

Balance in the Air - Victor Vasarely (1906-1997)
Victor Vasarely was born in Hungary but lived most of his life in France.  He is known for his colorful geometric art and was one of the earliest creators of what is called "Op Art."  Optical art is designed in such a way that it can create illusions by using abstract geometric patterns which can appear to move, swell, warp, or produce a number of other visual effects. 

Flexibility of Balance - Alexander Calder (1898-1976)
Alexander Calder was an American sculptor who is credited with inventing "kinetic sculpture," an art form which utilizes balance, weight, and air movement.  Kinetic sculpture is more commonly known as the mobile.  Calder's father and grandfather were also well-known sculptors in their day. 

Both Vasarely's and Calder's art is on display in cities all over the world.   The sculptures featured in today's post can be viewed at the new Open Air Sculpture Park in Jeddah's Middle Corniche, which is the site for the opening ceremony of Jeddah Art Week on Saturday, February 1st at 6pm, kicking off the first of many scheduled events.  The public is welcome at any of the events.   Hope to see you there! 

4 comments:

RedPat said...

These are both wonderful pieces - I have always been a big Calder fan so love to see his piece in particular!

Kay said...

Hi Susie! Thanks so much for stopping by. I've missed you too. Your blog has changed! What fun to see what you're up to.

Susie of Arabia said...

Hi RedPat - Until the Calder work was restored, I hate to say that I really didn't like it at all. It looks really amazing now though. There were several other pieces that were brightly colored modern metal sculptures that I also didn't care for as well, and now that they have been restored, I'm a fan. It all makes me very happy.

Susie of Arabia said...

Hi Kay - I will try to get back into my blog hopping routine, so hopefully you will see me more often. Great to hear from you.