Destructive Testing – Artist of the Day – Marco Mahler

Destructive Testing – Artist of the Day / Marco Mahler

Posted on May 17, 2012

“Since I’ve recently become interested in making mobiles, I thought I would start checking out artists who actually know what they are doing.  Marco Mahler obviously does.  And with great style and artistry.  His beautiful mobiles are more stylish and ‘finished’ than what I’m interested in doing.

And, his are almost exclusively indoor models.  I want mine for outdoors where there is wind blowing!  So, nothing too delicate for me.  But, I love his work (and maybe he will be so thrilled about being Artist of the Day that he will give me a few clues!)

Update:  What a great guy!  Marco just sent me a link to a post of his that explains everything I wanted to know: https://www.marcomahler.com/how-to-make-mobiles“

The most expensive mobile ever sold

[Update: Calder’s hanging mobile “Poisson volant” (Flying Fish) realized $25,925,000 tonight (May 13th 2014) – a new world auction record for Calder]

Also, see my list of the 10 most expensive Alexander Calder mobiles sold at auction at Original Calder Mobiles For Sale – updated in September 2025.

Alexander Calder’s “Lily of Force”, a standing / hanging mobile he made in 1945, sold yesterday (May 8th 2012) at Christie’s in New York City for $18.5 million, making it the most expensive mobile ever sold (so far). Below is a video of the piece.

If you’re looking for a more affordable suspended mobile sculpture, please do take a look at my mobiles and consider commissioning me for a custom designed / custom made piece.

Large custom hanging mobile

Drawing / design of a large custom hanging mobile I made for a private residence in Long Island, New York, last summer.

via Haus Interior
(click on “Portfolio” then “Long Island Residence”)

2011

10 feet tall – 5 feet wide
Three parts moving independently full circle
Sheet metal

[Click here to see the photo of the actual mobile installed]

Not a Calder reproduction / replica / copy, but definitely a modern / contemporary Calder inspired kinetic piece.