This 1970 gouache painting by Alexander Calder features a dynamic spiral design composed of rectangular blocks in primary colours, delineated by thick black lines, creating a sense of movement and energy.

Alexander Calder (1898-1976) was an American sculptor known as the originator of the mobile, a type of kinetic sculpture, and a major figure in 20th-century abstract art. His works often feature simple shapes and primary colours, reflecting an interest in geometric abstraction and the dynamic possibilities of form. Calder's artistic output also included paintings, drawings, and prints, all characterised by a similar sense of playful abstraction. 'Spiral', created in 1970, exemplifies Calder's distinctive style. The work features a bold, spiralling design composed of rectangular blocks in primary colours: red, blue, yellow, and black, along with white, orange, and green. These blocks are arranged to form a dynamic, swirling pattern against a white background. The composition is defined by thick, black lines that delineate each coloured segment, adding a graphic quality to the piece. The spiral form itself creates a sense of movement and energy, drawing the viewer's eye towards the centre of the composition. The use of gouache on paper gives the colours a matte finish, enhancing the overall visual impact of the work.