Viewing Space

Viewing Space

            In Grant Park of Downtown Chicago there is unique feature towards the south end that deserves your attention. The sculptures entitled Agora by Magdalena Abakanowicz adds to the spectacle of Michigan Avenue. The Sheer size of each sculpture and their formation allows room for the public to find something within it. One thing that is wonderful about these sculptures and that is that there is no front. This fact adds to the experience of viewing public art such as this.

            Abakanowicz is known for her use of materials that are organic which limits her color choices, but in the review of these sculptures Abakanowicz choice of using iron makes these sculptures stand out. The rusted colors of the sculptures have the essences of hard work which go great with the attitude of this great city. In Agora sculptures they are decapitated figures that standing straight up with one foot in front of the other. They are arranged as if they marching towards something. Compared to other Abakanowicz sculptures these sculptures have movement qualities.

            Grant Park is very long in length, and this particular park contains a lot of art. With Abakanowicz work being held there being the only contemporary arts speaks volume. One could say that this can attribute to the diverse culture we have in Chicago. These sculptures are a must to see with the Chicago skyline within the back ground. These sculptures are tall and endless when you look at them from one end to the other.

            To be up close to the sculpture there is so much detail to the work done by Abakanowicz. The sculptures are hollow on one side and they each have indents that individual for each sculpture. No matter how much time is spend with either walking past or if sitting with it for a minute or two you will gain something from it. There is a reason why Magdalena Abakanowicz was brought on to add to Grant Park in 2006. Her works speaks to a natural experience fused with structures that visually are rough, but pleasing. This is one attraction that tourists stumble upon when they visit this great city. As a Chicagoans was we must appreciate the next time we walk down Michigan Avenue in the South Loop. We must take a second to look at Agora it’s definitely is worth our attention.