Karlssonwilker: Finding an Identity for Calder Gardens
Text by Jan Wilker, Hjalti Karlsson, Vera Yuan.
A behind-the-scenes look into the making of a complex cultural project from New York–based design studio Karlssonwilker
This volume traces the design process behind the visual identity of Calder Gardens, a new art institution in Philadelphia dedicated to Alexander Calder (1898–1976). Sitting on 1.8 acres of land that encompasses both indoor and outdoor spaces, the Calder Gardens house a rotating installation of Calder’s artworks. The project was developed by the renowned New York–based design studio Karlssonwilker in collaboration with the Calder Foundation, the architectural firm Herzog & de Meuron and the garden designer Piet Oudolf. Across 192 pages, this book gathers keynotes, visual references, design sketches and drafts, retrospective commentary and an interview, conveying a scrupulous narrative of design in progress. The book provides insight into a contemporary design methodology, making visible how complex cultural projects are conceived, tested, refined and communicated. It is a compelling read for designers, architects and anyone interested in how ideas come into being.
STATUS: Forthcoming | 9/29/2026
This title is not yet published in the U.S. To pre-order or receive notice when the book is available, please email orders @ artbook.com
Karlssonwilker: Finding an Identity for Calder Gardens
Published by Lars Müller Publishers. Text by Jan Wilker, Hjalti Karlsson, Vera Yuan.
A behind-the-scenes look into the making of a complex cultural project from New York–based design studio Karlssonwilker
This volume traces the design process behind the visual identity of Calder Gardens, a new art institution in Philadelphia dedicated to Alexander Calder (1898–1976). Sitting on 1.8 acres of land that encompasses both indoor and outdoor spaces, the Calder Gardens house a rotating installation of Calder’s artworks. The project was developed by the renowned New York–based design studio Karlssonwilker in collaboration with the Calder Foundation, the architectural firm Herzog & de Meuron and the garden designer Piet Oudolf.
Across 192 pages, this book gathers keynotes, visual references, design sketches and drafts, retrospective commentary and an interview, conveying a scrupulous narrative of design in progress. The book provides insight into a contemporary design methodology, making visible how complex cultural projects are conceived, tested, refined and communicated. It is a compelling read for designers, architects and anyone interested in how ideas come into being.
