We asked readers what their favorite piece of public art is in Chicago. Here’s what you told us, lightly edited for clarity:
“The lions at the Art Institute of Chicago.”
— Robert Haugland
“My favorite sculpture is ‘Crossing’ by Hubertus von der Goltz, on Lasalle Street just north of the Chicago River.”
— Peter Hartel
“Matthew Hoffman’s ‘You Are Beautiful’ works can be seen all over the city, and farther, but my favorite was his ‘Go For It’ temporary installation near my home. It uplifted me every day. The artist was kind enough to gift me a small piece when he dismantled it. I miss it dearly.”
— Jill Murtagh
“The Picasso in the Daley Plaza is one of my favorites because I love seeing the kids use it as a slide.”
— Terrence Camodeca
“My favorite piece of public art in Chicago is The Bean. When I first saw a picture of it, I was somewhat puzzled. I went to see it in person and was instantly awestruck. It’s iconic, it’s beloved, it’s beautiful no matter what time of day or what time of year.”
— Manisha Makwana
“I love the ‘Stand Tall’ mural on the north side of the Prudential Building!”
— Emily Lenz
“The mural depicting a medley of parades and outdoor celebrations in a variety of mediums on the South Loop Parking Garage at 318 S. Federal St. I walk by it often and always find delightful new faces and personalities to focus on every time.”
— Elijah Sloane
“The mural of Celia Cruz at [the now closed] 90-Mile restaurant over on Armitage.”
— Oscar Baez
“I always have a soft spot for the Picasso. It was the first major piece and was kind of controversial for the ’60s. I also like the Calder in Federal Plaza (probably because I’m an ex-fed).”
— Dennis Novak