in my Large Scale Product Presentation class at FIT, we were tasked with designing a large-scale, three-dimensional display using mannequins or suitable alternatives to promote a current museum exhibition. If possible, we were required to attend the exhibition to observe its overall theme, display layout, graphics, branding, and written content. Based on our observations, we developed a concept for the vitrine that would inspire viewers to attend the show. This included selecting an appropriate mannequin and designing a costume for it. The final display had to include all official museum branding, the exhibition title, and the show’s run dates, all of which needed to be clearly presented in vinyl lettering on the glass.

Alexander Calder (1898–1976) was an American sculptor who transformed modern art by creating the mobile, a type of kinetic sculpture. With a background in mechanical engineering, Calder combined technical skill with artistic vision, producing both moving mobiles and stationary stabiles. His playful, abstract work often used bold colors and motion. One of his early masterpieces, Calder’s Circus (1926–1931), is a miniature, hand-operated performance piece that showcases his love for whimsy and craftsmanship.

The Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City, known for its focus on modern American art, houses Calder’s Circus as a highlight of its permanent collection. Inspired by the whimsical lion and its cage from the piece, the creators of the text began developing their own display centered on making the lion the star, moving quickly into conceptualizing and sketching their vision.