The Miró’s Chicago Sculpture: A Surrealist Gem in the Loop

Introduction

In the bustling heart of Chicago’s Loop, surrounded by soaring skyscrapers and busy streets, stands a surreal splash of color and imagination: The Miró’s Chicago Sculpture, also known as Miss Chicago. This whimsical work by Spanish surrealist artist Joan Miró brings a playful spirit to the city’s impressive collection of public art.

Unveiled in 1981, the 39-foot-tall sculpture is a blend of vibrant shapes, bold forms, and fantastical imagery that reflects Miró’s signature style. It is made of steel, bronze, concrete, and ceramic tile, combining industrial strength with dreamlike artistry. Much like Picasso’s famous sculpture a few blocks away, Miró’s piece challenges viewers to interpret its meaning. Some see a woman, others a bird, while many simply enjoy the joyful abstraction that invites imagination.

For locals, it’s a beloved landmark that balances the seriousness of downtown with creativity and charm. For visitors, it’s an opportunity to stand before a major work of modern art in a completely public, open-air setting—proof of Chicago’s commitment to making art part of everyday life.

What is The Miró’s Chicago Sculpture famous for?

The Miró’s Chicago Sculpture is famous for being a major surrealist artwork in the city’s downtown. Created by Joan Miró, it represents his dreamlike, imaginative style and adds to Chicago’s world-class collection of public art.

Why should you visit The Miró’s Chicago Sculpture?

To experience an original Joan Miró creation in the heart of Chicago.

To enjoy one of the city’s most colorful and whimsical public artworks.

To compare it with nearby masterpieces by Picasso, Calder, and Chagall.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit The Miró’s Chicago Sculpture?

The sculpture is located outdoors in Brunswick Plaza, so it is accessible 24 hours a day, year-round.

Best time to visit: Daytime, when the sculpture’s colors stand out against the backdrop of glass towers.

Early mornings or evenings are quieter, perfect for photos without large crowds.

How much does it cost to visit The Miró’s Chicago Sculpture?

Visiting the sculpture is completely free. Like many of Chicago’s public art pieces, it is open to everyone, making it a great stop on a self-guided walking tour.

What can you see or do at The Miró’s Chicago Sculpture?

Admire the sculpture from different angles to appreciate its whimsical forms.

Take photos with the bold, colorful shapes that contrast with the Loop’s architecture.

Combine your visit with nearby public art pieces for a walking art tour of downtown.

Pause and enjoy how Miró’s surreal vision transforms an ordinary plaza into an imaginative space.

What is the history behind The Miró’s Chicago Sculpture?

Joan Miró first proposed a sculpture for Chicago in 1969, but funding challenges delayed its completion. Thanks to a partnership between the city and private donors, the sculpture was finally installed in 1981 in Brunswick Plaza, across from the Daley Center.

Originally called The Chicago, it quickly earned the nickname Miss Chicago. With its bold, dreamlike forms and use of everyday materials like concrete and steel, the sculpture reflects both Miró’s surrealist vision and Chicago’s industrial strength. Today, it stands as a joyful reminder that public spaces can be filled with imagination as well as function.

Where is The Miró’s Chicago Sculpture located and how do you get there?

Address: Brunswick Plaza, 69 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602.

By CTA: Take the Red or Blue Line to Washington or the Brown/Purple/Orange Line to Washington/Wells—all are just a short walk away.

By Bus: Multiple CTA bus routes stop nearby.

By Car: Parking is available in Loop garages, though public transport is more convenient.

Insider Tips

Visit together with Picasso’s Chicago Sculpture just steps away in Daley Plaza for a perfect public art pairing.

If you’re into photography, capture the contrast between Miró’s surreal forms and the sleek skyscrapers.

Stop by in summer when the plaza is lively with workers on lunch breaks and city events.

Nearby Attractions

Daley Plaza & Picasso’s Sculpture – Another modernist masterpiece, just across the street.

Chicago Cultural Center – Free art exhibits and stunning architecture, including the world’s largest Tiffany glass dome.

Millennium Park – Home to Cloud Gate (“The Bean”) and other iconic works.

Art Institute of Chicago – One of the top museums in the world, with Miró’s paintings and works by countless masters.

State Street Shopping District – Just steps away for a mix of history and retail.

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