La Grande Vitesse, or "The Calder" as it is affectionately referred to by most Grand Rapidians, was completed and installed in 1969. This stabile (a stationary yet abstract sclupture) by world-reknown sculptor Alexender Calder was the first piece of federally funded public art installed anywhere in the United States and quickly became a symbol of the city.
Some Facts
- Festival of the Arts, first held at this site in 1970 just one year after the dedication of “The Calder,” opened with only two stages and a few food booths. Now the Festival, held the first week-end in June, fills almost the entire downtown area.
- La Grande Vitesse inspired many additional works of public art to be installed in the city, including Ecliptic by Maya Lin at Rosa Parks Circle, also included on the tag-tour.
