Magdalene, Public sculpture in Grant Park, Chicago, United States
Magdalene is a steel sculpture located at the intersection of Congress Parkway and Michigan Avenue, depicting a tall female figure with an open metal dress structure. The work sits within a triangular garden that connects to the broader walking paths throughout Grant Park.
Artist Dessa Kirk created and installed this sculpture in 2005 after developing a successful series of Daphne sculptures exhibited in Chicago Park District shows. This work built upon her established practice of placing figurative steel works in public spaces.
The sculpture represents Mary Magdalene through contemporary artistic expression, and visitors notice how plants change its appearance throughout the year. Tulips bloom around it in spring while climbing vines cover parts of the metal frame in summer.
The sculpture sits in an easily accessible triangular garden connected to Grant Park's main walking routes, making it convenient to reach from nearby museums or transit stops. The location near Congress Parkway offers straightforward access for visitors exploring the area on foot.
The metal dress structure incorporates repurposed automobile parts welded together to create a framework that naturally supports climbing vegetation. This combination of recycled industrial materials with living plants creates an artwork that transforms continuously.
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