Mobiles, suspended sculptures, and stabiles are available in a wide range of styles, materials and sizes.  Some designs follow in the footsteps of Alexander Calder, while others explore new territory.  As a sculptor who has created many mobiles and suspended sculptures (see pictures), I will offer some questions to consider when shopping for one.

Kuroshio
8' x 20' x 12'

Where will it hang?
If you are starting your search with a particular space to fill--a stairwell, an atrium, a space over a table, etc.--then you will need to consider the specific constraints and opportunities offered by that space.  If you have found a mobile that you love, then it deserves the right spot!

The first issue is scale.  A particular mobile may be dwarfed if it hangs in the middle of a large room, while it may look great in a corner of the same room, hanging over a desk.  To estimate the approximate size needed, you may find it helpful to have someone hold up a tape measure, set to various lengths, as you step back to look and imagine.  Of course, some mobiles are more densely constructed that others, so a 25" diameter, densely arranged mobile may feel as large as a 35" diameter, diffusely arranged mobile.  Also, keep in mind that mobile dimensions are approximate since the mobile continually changes.

Next, you will want to consider viewpoints.  Will the mobile primarily be viewed from below, at eye level, or both?  Some mobiles look great from below, but less interesting when your eye is on the same level, and vice versa.  And what about the backdrop?  If the background is complicated, a simple, bold design and a contrasting color may show up best.  For instance, a delicate green mobile hanging in front of a window may disappear into the background of trees, while a bold red mobile may be outstanding.  Hanging in front of a red wall, the reverse would be true.

Ginkgo (detail--viewed from below)
20' x 10' x 10'

Do you like it?
Some designs emphasize movement, others emphasize color, some are representational; the possibilities are endless.  Of course, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but, as you consider colors, textures, materials, and style, keep in mind that a mobile is a continually changing form.  It is hard to represent a mobile in a single two-dimensional image.  Try to imagine its movements.  Will it be interesting in its various forms?  How will the lighting in your room affect it?  Do the pictures tell you enough?  Contact the seller if you need more information.

Sea Horse in a Whirlwind
24" x 48" x 18"

How much will it move?
The movement of a mobile depends on several factors.  Obviously, it is dependant on the movement of air in the room.  A mobile in a corner may sit idly for days, while a mobile near an air conditioning vent may spin wildly and bang the ceiling.  The design and construction of the mobile will also affect the movement.  Factors that influence movement are:  weight, surface area (to catch air currents), leverage (the distance from the centers of rotation to the air-catching parts), and connecting elements.  Some connecting elements, such as swivels, allow the pieces to endlessly rotate 360 degrees, while others allow limited rotation.  Cord may allow a few rotation in one direction, and then it will need to unwind.  Interlocking hoops (typical in Calder's mobiles) allow movement with very little air current, but they limit the rotation of a particular piece to about 60 degrees in either direction relative to the adjacent pieces, so the overall relation between the pieces tends to stay the same.

Eclipse
8' x 16' x 55'

How will it hang?
Most small mobiles are fairly easy to hang, but be sure that your means of attachment is appropriate.  A hook screwed into drywall may pull loose in time.  Attach the hardware to a secure structural member such as a joist.  (Use a stud-finder.)  If the mobile weighs more that a couple of pounds, use hardware that is weight-rated, so that you can be sure it is adequate.  In comparing ratings on different hardware, cables or cords, be aware that "Safe Working Load" (SWL) and "test strength" are very different.  "Safe Working Load" is just what it sounds like; "test strength" is the weight at which the item is at risk of breaking.  As a rule of thumb, you can divide "test strength" by five and get the SWL for steel products.

Zephyr
28" x 38" x 38"

What is it made of?
Mobiles tend to be made of lightweight, but strong materials such as aluminum, wood, thin steel, and nylon.  There is no "best" material.  Assuming that the mobile is appropriately designed and constructed for the material used, then choice of material is primarily an aesthetic and individual choice.  You may want to match or contrast other materials or colors in the room.  You may simply be drawn to a certain material.

Cascade
18" x 27" x 27"

Will it last?
Since mobiles are generally constructed to be as lightweight as possible, they also tend to be somewhat fragile.  Obviously, you would not want to hang one in a location where it would be likely to get bumped.  The greatest risk of breakage is probably in handling the mobile; once it is hung, it should be fine.  If you lift a mobile by the top section, the ones below should naturally fall into their balanced positions.  lifting the mobile by any other piece is likely to tangle it.  Some materials may be degraded by direct sunlight.  The quality of construction may affect the mobiles longevity, but it is hard to judge without directly examining the mobile.  In general, look for neat connections between the pieces, well finished edges, and neat joints between welded or glued parts.

Waves III
5' x 12' x 12'

Do you LOVE it?
We all come to eBay hoping to find great bargains, but remember:  buying artwork is not the same as buying a toaster.  The thrill of a bargain wears off quickly, but the pleasure of finding a piece of artwork that you really love lasts and grows.  Search for something you love.  Be patient.  If you find a mobile that you almost love, consider commissioning a similar piece, with modifications, from the artist.  If you find a piece that you love, buy it and enjoy it!

If you found my suggestions helpful, please click "yes" below.

--Harry McDaniel
About Me

Neptunea
72" x 32" x 32"