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Grades K–2 · Arts & Music

How can hanging shapes balance in a mobile?

A mobile is hanging art that can move in the air. Its shapes hang from bars or wires. The artist chooses where to hang each part so the whole piece can balance.

A37 visual explanationThe top bar has matching shapes at matching places. Below, a heavier shape can balance closer to the hanging point. These light bars stay level in the model.Hanging art can balance in different waysMatching shapes, matching placesThe heavier shape hangs nearerWeight and place both change the turning pull

In the diagramHanging art can balance in different waysMatching shapes, matching placesThe heavier shape hangs nearerWeight and place both change the turning pull

Two level, ideal light bars: two equal shapes hang equally far from the support; a heavier shape balances a lighter shape at half the distance.

Each shape pulls down. A shape farther from the hanging point has more turning pull than the same shape nearby. A heavier shape can balance a lighter one when the heavier shape hangs closer to that point.

The drawing shows two matching arrangements. The top bar stays level in both. The shapes do not need to look the same. A gentle breeze can turn the hanging art while its parts remain joined.

About this explanation

Starting knowledge: Notice heavier and lighter objects, near and far positions, and a bar hanging from a point.

Sources

  • National Gallery of Art — Calder’s Balancing Acts
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