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Philadelphia Inquirer | Where to find 10 extraordinary artworks by the Calder family on display in Philadelphia

The Calder Foundation has unveiled its vision for "Calder Gardens" in Philadelphia, a new home to showcase three generations of Philadelphia artists. In anticipation, Stephen Salisbury includes PAFA's ties to the Calder family in the Philadelphia Inquirer, highlighting where to view their work even before the exciting addition to our local arts and culture landscape. 

Because of his monumental mobiles and long career as one of the most innovative sculptors of the twentieth century, contemporary audiences may be most familiar with Alexander "Sandy" Calder (1898-1976).

Did you also know the sculptor of the William Penn statue on top of City Hall was his grandfather? Alexander Milne Calder (1846–1923), who studied at PAFA. Milne Calder's son, Alexander Stirling Calder (1870-1945), both studied and taught here. The PAFA museum collection stewards work by both Stirling Calder and his son, Alexander "Sandy" Calder.

"The work of three generations of artists named Calder will be on view in the first locale dedicated to Calders anywhere in the world. But this is Philadelphia — you don’t have to wait to see amazing works by Alexander Milne Calder, his son Alexander Stirling Calder, and his son Alexander “Sandy” Calder. The work of grandfather and progeny can be found all over the city." —Stephen Salisbury

Alexander ("Sandy") Calder was a native Philadelphian, the son and grandson of famous sculptors associated with the city. Learn more about the influences for monumental mobiles such as Route Barrée (1962).

Visit the PAFA museum to see Route Barrée in person, and read the Inquirer's highlights of Calder sculpture around the city: 


About PAFA

Founded in 1805, the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts is the United States’ first school and museum of fine arts. A recipient of the National Medal of Arts, PAFA offers a world-class collection of American art, innovative exhibitions of historic and contemporary American art, and educational opportunities in the fine arts. The PAFA Museum aims to tell America's diverse story through art, expanding who has been included in the canon of art history through its collections, exhibitions, and public programs, while classes educate artists and appreciators with a deep understanding of traditions and the ability to challenge conventions. PAFA’s esteemed alumni include Mary Cassatt, Njideka Akunyili Crosby, William Glackens, Barkley L. Hendricks, Violet Oakley, Louis Kahn, David Lynch, and Henry Ossawa Tanner.