The tactile qualities of Calder’s materials—particularly the softness, pliability, and weight of the paint—are central to the viewer’s sensory engagement with the work. These physical attributes do not disappear into abstraction; instead, they remain visible and palpable, no matter how the paint is displayed. Whether draped over steel bars, stools, tables, or frames, or loosely gathered and suspended on cords, the materiality of the paint retains a strong presence, inviting a closer, more intimate interaction from the viewer.

The choice of support plays a pivotal role in shaping how each piece is experienced. Calder’s works are not static; the supports serve not merely as display mechanisms but as integral components of the composition. In her studio practice, Calder often repositions the paint forms onto different supports, allowing the works to evolve over time and highlighting the flexible nature of the materials. This adaptability emphasizes the dynamic relationship between form and structure, and between artwork and space.

In the context of this exhibition, Stacked red exemplifies this approach. Composed of five individual forms originally shown in 2014, the work is presented here suspended and draped in a configuration that echoes the earlier installation Fifteen metres of red standing. This continuity in display gestures reinforces Calder’s ongoing exploration of repetition, placement, and recontextualization. By revisiting and reconfiguring past elements, she underscores the performative and ever-changing character of her sculptural language.