High Wire: Calder’s Circus at 100 celebrates the centennial of Alexander Calder’s iconic Circus, the whimsical, handcrafted universe that laid the foundation for his later innovations in sculpture and kinetic art. Bringing together Calder’s wire performers, miniature props, and archival footage of his legendary performances, the exhibition reveals the artist’s early fascination with movement, play, and improvisation.

At once intimate and exuberant, Calder’s Circus captures the joy of invention and the spirit of experimentation that would come to define his mobiles and stabiles. Presented a century after its creation, the work continues to charm, surprise, and illuminate Calder’s unique ability to turn simple materials into a world alive with imagination.”

Location

  • Venue: Whitney Museum of American Art

  • Address: 99 Gansevoort Street, New York, NY 10014

  • Galleries: Fifth and sixth floors (check museum map for exact installation)


Timing

  • Exhibition Dates: October 18, 2025 – March 9, 2026

  • Hours:

    • Monday, Wednesday–Sunday: 10:30 am – 6:00 pm

    • Friday: 10:30 am – 10:00 pm

    • Closed Tuesdays

  • Special Events: Guided tours and talks (check Whitney website for schedule)


Purpose

  • Celebrate the 100th anniversary of Alexander Calder’s Circus.

  • Showcase Calder’s innovative use of wire, movement, and improvisation in early performance pieces.

  • Illustrate how the Circus laid the groundwork for his later mobiles and stabiles, foundational contributions to modern sculpture.

  • Engage audiences of all ages in play, imagination, and the joy of creative invention.