Picasso Sculpture Unveiled in Chicago on This Day in History
On this day in Chicago history, Pablo Picasso's steel sculpture, described as 'a cow sticking out its tongue,' was unveiled in the city.
Chicago, IL, August 15, 2026 —
On this day in Chicago history, the city witnessed the unveiling of a significant piece of public art: Pablo Picasso’s untitled steel sculpture. The iconic work, located in Daley Plaza, has been a landmark in the city since its reveal.
The sculpture, standing at over 50 feet tall, is constructed from Cor-Ten steel and has been a subject of discussion and admiration since its installation. Its abstract form has been interpreted in various ways, with some famously describing it as resembling ‘a cow sticking out its tongue.’ Despite initial mixed reactions, the artwork has become an enduring symbol of Chicago’s commitment to public art and modern design.
The unveiling marked a pivotal moment in the integration of large-scale contemporary sculpture into the urban landscape. The artist, Pablo Picasso, a towering figure in 20th-century art, did not provide a specific title for the piece, allowing for a more open interpretation by the public. The project was commissioned by the Graham Foundation for Advanced Studies in the Fine Arts and funded by a group of private citizens and foundations.
The Picasso sculpture in Chicago is one of several major public artworks by the artist, but it remains one of the most recognizable. Its presence in Daley Plaza, a central hub of civic activity, ensures its constant visibility and engagement with residents and visitors alike. The artwork continues to provoke thought and conversation, cementing its place in the city’s cultural identity.
Story summarized from the original created by Google News on news.google.com, see more information here.
