Cloud Gate (The Bean)

Here, you are in front of the famous magic bean of Chicago. Officially named the Cloud Gate, it is known as The Bean by insiders;Or the fabulous story of an artwork that became the symbol of a whole city in no time. It all began with the grand project, seeking to transform former railway yards into what is now known as theMillennium Park. It’s the biggest project in Chicago since its 1893 World’s Fair. At its inauguration in 2004, the park received numerous awards. It’s the largest in the city and it is specifically dedicated to architecture and contemporary art. An extraordinary park, with an equally extraordinary sculpture. It all started with a design competition through whichBritish-Indian artist Anish Kapoor was chosen. In 2006, the artwork is unveiled and immediately becomes a success. The artist, keen to integrate both, the urban landscape of Chicago as well as the spectator into his work, decided to present a sculpture in stainless steel representing liquid mercury. Its polished and shiny exterior reflects the clouds, the landscape, the skyscrapers, and the passersbys. It’s an interactive work that invites you to approach it, to touch it, to observe yourself and the world around you. It’s a 10 meters high, 20 meters long, and 13 meters wide structure. Below the nearly 4-meter-high arch is the omphalos, which multiplies and distorts the image through reverberations, placing you at the center of the show. The result of this mercury droplet made of 168 seamless steel plates is absolutely fascinating, and its realization is an absolute feat. The bean is obviously cherished by the city. The lower part is cleaned twice a day, and fully polished twice a year with over 140 liters of detergent. The Cloud Gate plays with changing light and offers a spectacle that is equally stunning during the day and night, so don’t hesitate to come back at nightfall to see the city lights reflected in it!