Throwing Three Balls in the Air to Get a Straight Line (Best of Thirty-Six Attempts), 1973

Artist: John Baldessari (American, 1931–2020)
Medium: Complete set of 12 offset lithographs in colors on coated stock paper
Contents: 12 prints, title-page, and justification page
Dimensions: 24.2 × 32.3 cm each (sheet)
Edition: 2000 copies
Co-published by Edizioni Giampaolo Prearo and Galleria Toselli
With original blue letterpress paper slipcase

Description

Discover Throwing Three Balls in the Air to Get a Straight Line (Best of Thirty-Six Attempts) (1973) by John Baldessari, a landmark figure in Conceptual Art. This iconic portfolio exemplifies Baldessari’s pioneering approach, blending photography, performance, text, and conceptual strategy.

The work documents the artist’s attempt to throw three red balls into the air in pursuit of forming a straight line — selecting the “best” result from thirty-six attempts. Through this playful yet rigorous process, Baldessari challenges traditional notions of composition, authorship, and artistic control.

This complete set includes 12 offset lithographs in color, accompanied by the title-page and justification page, and is presented with its original blue letterpress paper slipcase. Measuring 24.2 × 32.3 cm each, the portfolio was issued in an edition of 2000 copies and co-published by Edizioni Giampaolo Prearo and Galleria Toselli.

Widely regarded as one of Baldessari’s most significant conceptual works, this 1973 portfolio remains a cornerstone of post-war and contemporary art history, making it highly desirable among collectors and institutions.

Shipping & Delivery

✔ Worldwide shipping from France
✔ Professional packaging with full insurance
✔ Tracking number included for secure delivery

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FAQ

Is this a complete portfolio?
Yes. This listing includes the full set of 12 lithographs, along with the title-page and justification page, and the original slipcase.

What medium was used?
The works are offset lithographs in colors on coated stock paper.

Is this edition limited?
Yes, the portfolio was issued in an edition of 2000 copies.

Why is this work important?
Throwing Three Balls in the Air to Get a Straight Line is considered one of Baldessari’s most iconic conceptual projects and a key work of 1970s Conceptual Art.

Is worldwide shipping available?
Yes. We ship worldwide from France with secure packaging, tracking, and full insurance.