La Grande Vitesse, Steel sculpture in Grand Rapids, United States
The bright red steel structure rises 43 feet high and stretches 54 feet long, featuring angular planes that create dynamic geometric patterns and shapes.
In 1969, the National Endowment for the Arts selected this location for its first public art grant, providing $45,000 toward the sculpture's total cost of $128,000.
The steel creation serves as the central symbol of Grand Rapids, with its design incorporated into official city logos, vehicles, and municipal documents.
The sculpture stands at Calder Plaza between the Grand Rapids City Hall and Kent County buildings, where visitors gather during the annual Festival of the Arts.
The structure arrived in 27 separate pieces from France, requiring five days of assembly with cranes, welders, and specialized equipment to complete the installation.
Location: Michigan
Inception: 1969
Creator: Alexander Calder
Made from material: steel
GPS coordinates: 42.96929,-85.67074
Latest update: May 18, 2025 04:30
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