From liquid mercury to icon: The Bean’s reflective journey

The Bean, officially known as Cloud Gate, stands as a centerpiece of Chicago’s vibrant Millennium Park. This iconic sculpture, a must-visit for locals and tourists alike, is a masterpiece by world-renowned artist Anish Kapoor. Unveiled in 2004, The Bean quickly became a symbol of Chicago, drawing visitors with its stunning reflective surface.

Location and design

Nestled in the heart of Millennium Park, The Bean beautifully mirrors Chicago's skyline on its seamless stainless-steel exterior. As reported by Choose Chicago, the sculpture’s polished surface, resembling liquid mercury, encourages visitors to engage with their surroundings and their own reflections interactively. Designed with state-of-the-art computer technology, The Bean was meticulously crafted from 168 stainless-steel plates welded together, achieving its seamless look, said theMillennium Park Foundation.

The artistic vision of Anish Kapoor

Anish Kapoor, an Indian-born British artist, conceptualized Cloud Gate as his first permanent public outdoor work in America, the Millennium Park Foundation reported. The sculpture’s name, inspired by the sky-reflecting archway under its surface, highlights Kapoor’s ingenuity and vision. As the Millennium Park Foundation explains, flexible connectors bind the exterior to a robust internal framework, allowing The Bean to withstand Chicago's extreme weather variations. Weighing around 110 tons, The Bean's internal support system features two large rings interconnected by a truss framework, a structural design reminiscent of bridges, noted Choose Chicago.

A symbol of Chicago

The Bean's intriguing shape and reflective qualities, housing a central concave chamber, offer a unique gateway to visitors exploring Millennium Park. Its reflective allure and interactive charm have made it not only a prominent feature of the Chicago skyline but also a beloved cultural landmark.Explore Millennium Park for more iconic art installations and experience Chicago at its best through its rich collection of public art, including works by Picasso and Chagall.