PENNSYLVANIA - Across the street from Philadelphia City Hall, a 45-foot steel clothespin stands as an icon for the city. Developer Jack Wolgin commissioned the sculpture as part of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority's Percent for Art program. The Percent for Art program requires developers to allocate one percent of new construction costs to art. It has become a widely accepted practice in many U.S. cities.
Philadelphia's Clothespin: An Iconic Landmark Pinning Down Center City Charm
Standing tall at the busy intersection of 15th and Market Streets in Philadelphia's Center City, the "Clothespin" sculpture is an unmistakable and beloved part of the urban landscape. This towering, whimsical piece of public art, officially installed as part of the Centre Square complex, has captivated locals and tourists alike for decades, becoming an iconic symbol of modern Philadelphia. This article explores the history, design, and significance of Claes Oldenburg's famous Clothespin.
Origins: A Bicentennial Commission for Centre Square:
The Clothespin wasn't just placed randomly; it was a commissioned piece integral to a major development project. The sculpture was installed in 1976 as part of the ambitious $80 million Centre Square project, which included the construction of two high-rise office towers and an adjacent atrium near the subway entrance. This information can be verified through architectural histories of Philadelphia and records of the Centre Square development. Commissioned to commemorate Philadelphia's Bicentennial celebration in 1976, the Clothespin was intended to be a bold statement in the heart of the city, according to the Philadelphia Office of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy.
The Artist and His Vision: Claes Oldenburg:
The Clothespin is the creation of Claes Oldenburg, a renowned Swedish-born American sculptor known for his large-scale depictions of everyday objects, as detailed in his biographies and art history resources. Oldenburg's work often challenges viewers' perceptions of scale and imbues common items with monumental significance.
Design and Materials: A Giant Among Clothespins:
The sculpture's design is both simple and striking:
- Form: It takes the unmistakable shape of a giant, traditional spring-type clothespin, standing 45 feet tall on a raised podium above the sidewalk.
- Material: It is constructed from Cor-Ten steel, a weathering steel designed to develop a stable, rust-like appearance (a warm reddish-brown) over time, protecting the underlying metal, based on information about the material and sculpture conservation reports.
- Unique Finish: While made of steel, the Clothespin features painted streaks designed to mimic the natural wood grain of a traditional clothespin. These streaks interact with sunlight, changing appearance throughout the day.
Symbolism and Interpretation:
Like much of Oldenburg's work, the Clothespin invites interpretation. Some interpretations, often discussed in art criticism, suggest the simple, functional form evokes the coming together of people, potentially symbolizing Philadelphia as the birthplace of American democracy where diverse groups united. Its soaring silhouette has also been praised by art critics for its elegance against the backdrop of the city skyline.
An Enduring Landmark:
Decades after its installation, the Clothespin remains a beloved Philadelphia landmark. It's a popular destination for tourists seeking photos, a familiar sight for commuters, and an integral part of the Center City streetscape. Its unique form and prominent location have cemented its status as an icon of modern Philadelphia.
Conclusion:
Claes Oldenburg's Clothespin is more than just a massive sculpture; it's a playful yet profound piece of public art that has become deeply woven into the fabric of Philadelphia. Its unusual form, historical context, and prominent location make it a memorable landmark and a symbol of the city's blend of history and modernity. Whether you see it as a comment on democracy, a celebration of the everyday object, or simply a giant clothespin, it undeniably pins down a unique spot in Philadelphia's heart.
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