Chicago is home to hundreds of sculptures and statues and there is one that really stands out because of its brilliant red color. Built by artist Alexander Calder, the Calder Flamingo is a 53-foot tall structure located in Federal Plaza in the heart of downtown. It was constructed in 1973 and unveiled in 1974.
As an abstract sculpture, Flamingo resembles an actual flamingo in the way the structure bends, similar to how a flamingo bends its long, curved neck. Flamingo weighs 50 tons and is made of steel. The bright vermillion color was used intentionally so it could stand out among the dark steel buildings surrounding the plaza.
So the next time you're in the downtown area at 50 W. Adams Street, swing by and visit the Calder Flamingo. It is stationary so you can walk under it, through it and sometimes you'll see visitors trying to climb it. But that of course is not recommended.