Calder/Miro: The Philips Collection Foundation Beyeler

This is a wonderful catalogue that accompanies the landmark exhibition that was held at the Beyeler Foundation in Basel, Switzerland in 2004, and at the Phillips Collection in Washington. Apart from the groundbreaking comparative study of both artists, which is very well written and highly informative (a trove of previously unpublished documents), the illustrations are fantastic. One of the most moving series by Miro, the Constellations, some 40 watercolors painted in 1941, are wonderfully echoed in a three-dimensional space by Calder's delicate mobiles of the same period. Highly recommended.

it is always interesting to see how artists and friends influence one another and here is another brilliant examination. alexander calder and joan miro couldn't have been more different, yet, it seems that this factor propelled their friendship. they true friends from the beginning the artists, and their families, remained close throughout their careers. often collaborating on works, sharing ideas or simply exchanging artistic gifts their friendship shines through to their art. this show brings commonalities and collaborations together under one roof (some for the first time ever) and explores the influences behind the objects. bravo to the curators for bringing this to our attention and thanks for the fantastic catalogue that accompanies it!