Lynn Chadwick trained as a draughtsman. He served as a pilot during World War II and then worked as a designer of trade fair and exhibition stands. From 1947, Chadwick began to construct mobiles out of wire and balsa wood, later adding ground supports to anchor the works. His first solo exhibition took place in 1950.  He represented Britain at the Venice Biennale in 1952 and 1956, when he won the International Sculpture Prize. A major exhibition of his work was held at Tate Britain in 2003.