The Bean: It's Not Actually a Bean, People!
So, you've seen pictures of this shiny, curvy thing in Chicago and you're wondering, "Is it really made of beans?" Well, let's clear something up right away: The Bean is not a giant, metallic legume. It's a sculpture, okay? A very impressive one, but still, just a sculpture.
What is it Made Of, Then?
The Bean, officially named Cloud Gate, is actually made of stainless steel. Yup, the same stuff your pots and pans are probably made of. But don't go thinking it's just a big, shiny cooking pot. This thing is a masterpiece, designed by the brilliant mind of Anish Kapoor.
Imagine 168 massive stainless steel plates, cut and shaped with incredible precision, then pieced together like a giant, reflective puzzle. That's The Bean. No beans involved, just a whole lot of engineering and artistry.
Why Do People Call it The Bean?
Good question. Blame our collective love for giving nicknames to things. Maybe it's the shape? I mean, it kinda looks like a bean if you squint and use your imagination. Or maybe it's just a testament to our creativity (or lack thereof) when it comes to naming things.
Regardless, the name stuck, and now it's as iconic as the sculpture itself. So, next time you're in Chicago, feel free to call it The Bean. Just don't expect any actual beans to fall out.
Fun Facts About The Bean
- It's huge! We're talking 110 tons of stainless steel here. That's heavier than most elephants.
- The inside is actually made of wood. Yep, you read that right.
- It cost a whopping $23 million to build. Talk about price per bean... or, I mean, price per square inch of stainless steel.
- It's so reflective, you can see yourself, the city skyline, and sometimes even a glimpse of your soul.
So, there you have it. The Bean is a magnificent piece of art, but it's definitely not a foodstuff. Now, go forth and impress your friends with your newfound knowledge of Chicago's most famous sculpture.
How To... Bean-Related FAQs
- How to take a good selfie with The Bean: Find a good angle, avoid crowds, and embrace the reflection.
- How to appreciate The Bean: Take your time, look for different perspectives, and maybe even read a little about its history.
- How to avoid crowds at The Bean: Visit early in the morning or late at night, or simply go on a weekday.
- How to impress your friends with Bean knowledge: Drop some of the fun facts from this post, casually.
- How to stop thinking about beans after reading this: Eat something else.