Agora is an installation of 106 headless and armless iron sculptures at the south end of Grant Park in Chicago. Designed by Polish artist Magdalena Abakanowicz, they were made in a foundry near Poznań between 2004 and 2006. In 2006, the Chicago Park District brought the work to Chicago as a permanent loan from the Polish Ministry of Culture. Similar installations have been constructed throughout the world, but Agora is among the largest.History and descriptionChicago, which has a large Polish American community, had hoped to add a major work by Abakanowicz for several years before Agora arrived. Among the plans which were not realized were a large hand to be placed at the end of BP Pedestrian Bridge and a set of animal sculptures to be placed near the Monroe Street harbor. One proposal called for a group of headless figures be placed in Chicago's Museum Campus. Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley eventually suggested placing an installation at the south end of Grant Park, near Roosevelt Road. By 2006, private donors, including actor Robin Williams, contributed over $700,000 to bring the work to Chicago.The figures are 9ft tall and weigh approximately 1800lb. Each is made from a hollow, seamless piece of iron that has been allowed to rust, creating a reddish appearance and a bark-like texture. The figures appear to be milling about in a crowd; some face each other, while others look away. Visitors are meant to walk through the sculptures and contemplate the work.Before you head to Chicago, plan trip itinerary details with our user-friendly Chicago travel route planner, to make sure you see all that Chicago has to offer, including Agora Scuptures.
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Agora Scuptures reviews
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If you found yourself walking around the Museum Campus, walk a little further to experience this installation. If you are looking for a mind blowing backdrop for some dramatic pictures, look no... more »
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While walking in Grant Park, it is surprising to encounter such a large installation of 106 headless and armless iron sculptures. It is there for the public, free of charge and it is great to walk... more »
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Agora is definitely an interesting collection of sculptures right in downtown Chicago. It sort of reminds me of dementia or mental illness, I'm not sure why... On a lighter note, If you find yourself in the area it's surely worth a stop.
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A homless man spit in my face here. Luckily police were nearby. I also play pokemon go here. Its a nice place.
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