For 15 years, The Firebird outside Bechtler Museum of Modern Art has drawn quite the crowd. The 17.5-ft reflective sculpture provides more than art to Uptown — it offers a sense of positivity and pride.
Le Grand Oiseau de Feu Sur L’Arche, or “The large Firebird on the arch,” was created by French-American sculptor Niki de Saint Phalle.
“Throughout her career, Niki was inspired with mythology, ancient American, indigenous and central American, and Mexican mythology,” explained Todd Smith, executive director of the Bechtler. “So you have that inspiration coming through with her design.”
Fast facts about The Firebird
- Installed Oct. 24, 2009
- Unveiled Nov. 3, 2009
- Weighs 1,400 pounds
- Covered in ~7,500 mirrored tiles (from France)
“The way the glass reflects you back into it, you can walk through it, you can be a part of the sculpture,” added Smith. “It sends such a positive message and it’s an opportunity for people to engage with public art in a very personal way.”
