Chicago, Illinois, USA
European Prize for Architecture laureate Santiago Calatrava has completed the installation of his new sculpture, entitled “Constellation,” in River Point Park along the North Branch of the Chicago River.
Chicago is something of a public art mecca, and Calatrava’s new work takes its place in among some of the most important modern outdoor sculpture in the world: Picasso, Miro, Dubuffet, Calder, Chagall, and Kapoor.
Commissioned by Ivanhoé Cambridge, Hines and Levy Family Partners, the new sculpture stands 29 feet in height and width, with twists in an outward reaching spiral constructed of overlapping leaflike elements descending in scale from very large at the sculpture’s base to very small at the outer reach of the sculpture’s spiral form.
When approached from any angle, the massive layered spiral reveals stunning architectural depth, overhand and movement.
The Spanish-Swiss architect Calatrava’s intention in this sculpture is for it to simply grow from the ground.
Within each figure, an internal logic of autonomy delivers lyrical forms and implies a sense of elevation and spiritual uplifting, reflecting the building’s mirrored architectural arch.
“I feel honored that my work was chosen to be integrated in the streetscape of Chicago, a city with such an extraordinary tradition of urban art and architecture,” said Calatrava.
“This spectacular addition to the City of Chicago’s vibrant and renowned public works of art at River Point Park is another great example of how this amenities-rich and best-in-class office building truly makes a difference to the City, the community, and our tenants,” said Jonathan Pearce, Executive Vice President, Leasing and Development, Office and Industrial, North America, Ivanhoé Cambridge.
“River Point is a world-class project that has reshaped the iconic Chicago skyline,” said Jim Walsh, Senior Managing Director at Hines’ Chicago regional office. “The reflections of the bright red sculpture on the River and the glass tower is an amazing sight to see. It is a great artistic touch to our plaza and the riverfront.”
“Chicagoans have been highly anticipating the arrival of this sculpture and we are excited to welcome this as a new focal point in the city’s rich history of world class architecture and outdoor public sculpture. I am very proud that the model used in selecting the Calatrava sculpture will be displayed at the Art Institute of Chicago alongside models for Chicago’s Picasso, Calder and Dubuffet sculptures,” added Larry Levy, Managing Partner of Levy Family Partners.
River Point Calatrava Sculpture
Architect: Santiago Calatrava
Clients: Ivanhoé Cambridge, Hines, and Levy Family Partners
Photographers: Michael Kuntz of MK Event Photo and Eric Craig Studios
