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The Flamingo

Writer's picture: Patricia DyerPatricia Dyer

Updated: Jul 9, 2021




The Flamingo

Alexander Calder


I simply love this sculpture. Take note of its size and scale! It was designed by the iconic sculptor Alexander Calder - famous for his work with hanging mobiles, or in this case, a stationary mobile.

The sculpture’s contrast to the black steel buildings really grabs you - it’s so striking and beautiful. Explore this large scale work by the walking around, under or through it. The location is called Federal Plaza due to its three US federal buildings, one of which was designed by Mies Van der Rohe.




Fun Facts:


  • One of the first works of art commissioned by the US General Service Administration’s “art set aside program.”

  • The choice of steel as a medium and stark red (now known as Calder Red) for a color, were influenced by the contrast the sculpture would make against the ultramodern black steel buildings.

  • Unveiled to the public in 1974.

  • Weight - 50 tons and is 53 ft (16m) tall.

  • The Flamingo sits in front of a building designed by architect Mies van der Rohe.


Location - 50 W. Adams, Chicago, IL

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