Cloud Column: A Playful Sculpture in Houston’s Museum District
photos by Gerald E. McLeod
The Cloud Column sculpture in Houston has become a source of playful banter between the cities of Houston and Chicago. Installed in Houston’s museum district on March 27, 2018, this polished stainless steel oval stands at an impressive 29.25-by-10.8-by-6.7 feet. Created by renowned artist Anish Kapoor, the Cloud Column bears similarities to Kapoor’s famous Cloud Gate, also known as “The Bean,” located in Chicago’s Millennium Park.
Upon its installation in the Brown Foundation, Inc. Plaza outside the Glassell School of Art in the Cullen Sculpture Garden, the Cloud Column immediately drew teasing remarks from Chicagoans. Writers from the Chicago Tribune referred to it as the “johnny-come-lately bean” and the “leftover bean.” In response, Houstonians playfully dubbed Chicago’s 33-foot-tall stainless steel sculpture the “has bean,” as part of Houston’s friendly competition to surpass Chicago as the nation’s third-largest city.
Interestingly, Kapoor began work on the Cloud Column before creating the Cloud Gate, leading Houston to proudly claim their sculpture as the “original bean,” “the better bean,” or simply “the frijole.”
The Cloud Column, with its shiny surface reflecting passing clouds, has become a popular spot for selfies. Situated across the street from the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, it is just one of the many captivating artworks found in the Cullen Sculpture Garden. Visitors can also admire masterpieces by artists like Henri Matisse, Joan Miró, and Auguste Rodin.
Notably, Kapoor has another major work at the Dallas Cowboys stadium in Arlington. Sky Mirror, a 35-foot-wide mirrored concave disk, can be found near the main entrance of the stadium.
If you’re interested in experiencing the playful rivalry between Houston and Chicago firsthand, head to the intersection of Montrose Boulevard and Bissonnet Street in Houston to see the Cloud Column. Admission is free, but parking in the area can be limited. A parking garage at 5101 Montrose Blvd. offers the first 30 minutes for free.
Author’s Quote: “Discover the whimsical Cloud Column and join in on the friendly banter between Houston and Chicago!”
Author’s Conclusion: “The Cloud Column in Houston’s museum district is a delightful sculpture that adds a touch of playfulness to the city’s art scene. Whether you’re a fan of Houston or Chicago, this unique artwork is sure to spark a smile and a sense of friendly competition.”
George Barham, an accomplished journalist and avid gambling enthusiast, serves as the esteemed Editor-in-Chief at fly-to-australia.com, Australia’s leading source for comprehensive gambling news and insights. With an unwavering passion for both the written word and the ever-evolving world of betting and gaming, George brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the helm of our editorial team.
