Alexander Calder, one the most influential sculptors of the 20th Century, is a Connecticut favorite, having created most of his art in a Roxbury studio. Known for his perfectly balanced kinetic sculptures that move on the air’s currents and later for his large outdoor pieces, Calder started his sculpting career in Paris creating small sculptures and jewelry fashioned from wire.

It was there that he created “Cirque Calder,” a complex set of miniature performers, animals and props based on his observations of the Ringling Brothers Circus. “Cirque Calder” was designed to be manually maneuvered, creating performances that often lasted two hours.

While in Paris he also created much of his jewelry – memorable brass and silver adornments set in motion by the movements of the wearer. Calder’s jewelry has received little public recognition, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art is the first to exhibit his jewelry exclusively.

The museum’s bus tour is a unique opportunity to view two very important exhibitions of his work. The trip includes hosted bus transportation, two guided tours, and time to explore the other exhibits at both museum. Lunch is on your own in one of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s cafes or restaurants.

Cost is $149 for Mattatuck Museum members and $175 for non-members, and registration is required. To register and for additional information, call the museum at 203-753-0381 extension 10.