“The Rider (The Juggler, The Acrobat)”, created by Fernand Léger in 1953, is an artwork that finds its strength within the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement and is classified under the genre of sketch and study. This piece resides at the Musée National Fernand Léger in Biot, France.
The artwork in question is a striking representation combining organic and geometric forms to depict a scene of performers. Central to the composition are human figures engaged in various acrobatic feats, including a juggler and an acrobat on a ladder, while another figure appears mounted on a horse. The use of bold, black outlines characteristic of Léger’s style creates a sense of movement and dynamism. His distinct approach simplifies the forms, yet renders the scene lively and complex, capturing the essence of performance art with a modernist touch.
