Untitled (Kaleidoscope book), James Castle, 20th century
James Castle, portraitJames CastleAmerican, 1899–1977

Untitled (Kaleidoscope book)

20th century · Books & Publications, Drawings

Can I see it?

Not on view at present

Where is “Untitled (Kaleidoscope book)” now? Collection: Minneapolis Institute of Art, Minneapolis. Not on view at present. Checked September 29, 2026.

Minneapolis Institute of Art

Minneapolis, United States

It belongs to the collection, but is not on display at present.

Checked
In this state since
Source
The museum

About the work

For this undated handmade book, Castle created a series of graphically complex “kaleidoscope” drawings, so named because they emulate the visual effects of a kaleidoscope, an optical instrument composed of a cylinder, multiple mirrors, and loose beads or bits of colored glass. As one gazes into a kaleidoscope and turns the rotating cylinder, light entering from the other end is reflected among the mirrors and loose materials, creating an infinite array of symmetrical patterns. Castle was fascinated by the abstract geometric configurations of the kaleidoscope (he owned several) and adapted its effects for his own invented compositions, some of which also included advertisements for commercial products.

Minneapolis Institute of Art

Details

Accession number
2017.80.1

In the catalog

Sources

  • Minneapolis Institute of Art
  • Image: Minneapolis Institute of Art — Copyright © 2018 James Castle Collection and Archive LP, All rights reserved.
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On view at Minneapolis Institute of Art

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