After nearly a year of construction, Chicago is set to welcome back one of its most iconic tourist attractions, Anish Kapoor’s massive Cloud Gate sculpture, affectionately known as "The Bean." The beloved public art installation, located in Millennium Park, has been inaccessible since last August due to essential maintenance work on Grainger Plaza. However, a spokesperson from Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events announced that, weather permitting, the plaza would reopen to the public before the end of the month.
The maintenance work was crucial for the long-term preservation and accessibility of the plaza. The project included rebuilding the plaza podium, replacing pavers, and implementing accessibility upgrades such as new stairs and ramps. Additionally, a new waterproofing system was installed to protect the underlying structures. Originally, the reopening was anticipated earlier in the spring, but unforeseen delays pushed the timeline back.
Standing at an impressive 33 feet high, 42 feet wide, and 66 feet long, Cloud Gate is one of the largest public art installations in the world. The sculpture, which was unveiled in 2006, quickly became a top-ranked tourist attraction in the Midwest. Comprising 168 stainless steel plates seamlessly welded together and polished to a mirror finish, it provides a unique reflective surface that has made it incredibly popular for selfies and photographs.
Last year, Kapoor expanded his influence in public art by debuting a smaller version of the sculpture in New York City. The "Mini Bean," standing 19 feet high and weighing 40 tons, was met with mixed reviews. The smaller sculpture, estimated to have cost between $8 to $10 million, underscores Kapoor’s continuing exploration of reflective forms in urban landscapes.
The reopening of Cloud Gate is eagerly anticipated by both locals and tourists. The sculpture’s return will undoubtedly rejuvenate the area, drawing in crowds who have long awaited the chance to once again experience the unique visual and interactive qualities of Kapoor’s masterpiece. As one of Chicago’s most photographed landmarks, the Bean’s comeback promises to restore a sense of normalcy and joy to Millennium Park.
Selena Mattei