A long-awaited restoration of Alexander Calder's partially dismantled sculpture, Mountains and Clouds, is finally in progress at the Hart Senate Office Building in Washington, D.C. This monumental piece, which has graced the atrium since its dedication in 1987, is a stunning example of Calder's artistic vision.
Calder's sculpture, which stands 51 feet tall and spans 75 feet wide, was originally designed to complement the atrium's white marble architecture while standing out from surrounding features. After a structural assessment in 2016 raised safety concerns, the cloud component of the sculpture was removed, leaving only the majestic "mountains" in place.
Now, thanks to funding secured by the Calder Foundation, led by Calder's grandson, Alexander S. C. Rower, the restoration project aims to bring back the four-piece cloud mobile that was integral to Calder's original design. Rower confirmed that the restoration is currently underway and is expected to be completed later this year, restoring the sculpture to its full glory, complete with a rotating mechanism for the clouds.
This restoration not only revives a significant piece of art but also honors Calder's legacy, showcasing the importance of public art in enriching cultural spaces. The project reflects a commitment to preserving and enhancing the artistic heritage within the nation's capital.