Clothespin Claes Oldenburg
A colossal 15-meter clothespin sculpture by Claes Oldenburg, transforming an everyday object into monumental public art near Philadelphia's City Hall.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best for photos and city views
Clothespin Claes Oldenburg
Best Time
Best for photos and city views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A colossal 15-meter clothespin sculpture by Claes Oldenburg, transforming an everyday object into monumental public art near Philadelphia's City Hall.
"Don’t miss the clothespin near city hall. Interesting story behind it, too. Just one of many great stops along the city tour."
📸 Snap a Photo
Don't miss taking a picture with this iconic giant clothespin! :camerawithflash:
📍 Location Near City Hall
Conveniently located near City Hall, making it easy to combine with other city sights. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Giant Clothespin
Near City Hall, Philadelphia
A colossal 15-meter clothespin sculpture, a playful and iconic piece of public art.
Claes Oldenburg's Legacy
Philadelphia
Explore the work of Claes Oldenburg, a master of transforming mundane objects into monumental art.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Iconic Art in the City
Artist's Legacy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Snap a Photo
Don't miss taking a picture with this iconic giant clothespin! :camerawithflash:
📍 Location Near City Hall
Conveniently located near City Hall, making it easy to combine with other city sights. :world_map:
💡 Artist's Inspiration
Learn about Claes Oldenburg's inspiration from everyday objects. :bulb:
🚶♀️ City Tour Stop
A great stop on any Philadelphia city tour, especially hop-on/hop-off buses. :bus:
Clothespin Sculpture
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Snap a Photo
Don't miss taking a picture with this iconic giant clothespin! :camerawithflash:
📍 Location Near City Hall
Conveniently located near City Hall, making it easy to combine with other city sights. :world_map:
💡 Artist's Inspiration
Learn about Claes Oldenburg's inspiration from everyday objects. :bulb:
🚶♀️ City Tour Stop
A great stop on any Philadelphia city tour, especially hop-on/hop-off buses. :bus:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Clothespin sculpture to be an iconic and fun piece of public art, a playful landmark near City Hall that's great for photos. While some mention concerns about the surrounding area's cleanliness or loitering, most agree it's a must-see for its artistic merit and unique charm.
"downtown Philadelphia is beautiful and there are many things to see, but don’t miss the clothespin near city hall. Interesting story behind it, too. Just one of many great stops along the city tour. Highly recommend! Again, I aways recommend the city hop on/hop off tour in any city where its offered."
Bronson Allen
"I've lived in Philly my entire life, if you've seen it once you've seen it a million times, but it's iconic nonetheless. I'm 40 years old and it's always been there throughout my lifetime. Take a pic, even if you live here, be a tourist in your own city once in a while, no harm in that."
Mike Robinson
"Philadelphia is home to a huge 15-meter clothespin monument. This sculpture was created by artist Claes Oldenburg in 1976. He was inspired by everyday household items, which he celebrated through his unusual monuments. Claes Oldenburg passed away at his Manhattan home on July 18, 2022, but he left a lasting legacy!"
Nika Navi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Clothespin sculpture is located near Philadelphia's City Hall. You can easily reach it by public transportation, including SEPTA subway lines that stop at 15th Street/City Hall. Many city bus routes also serve the area. If you're driving, there are parking garages nearby, but be prepared for city traffic.
Yes, the sculpture is in a public plaza and is generally accessible. However, some visitors have noted that the surrounding sidewalks can be uneven or have debris, so watch your step.
Many visitors find that a hop-on/hop-off city tour is a convenient way to see the Clothespin sculpture along with other Philadelphia attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Clothespin sculpture is a piece of public art and can be viewed and admired for free.
As it's an outdoor public sculpture, it can be viewed at any time of day or night. However, for the best experience and safety, daytime viewing is recommended.
There is no admission fee to see the Clothespin sculpture. It's a free public art installation.
📸 📸 Photography
Daytime offers the best lighting for clear photos of the giant clothespin. Early mornings can be ideal to avoid crowds and capture a more serene shot.
Try framing the sculpture with City Hall in the background for a classic Philadelphia shot. Getting closer allows you to appreciate its scale and texture.
Absolutely! It's a popular spot for photos. Many visitors pose as if they are using the clothespin or standing beside it to emphasize its size.
🎫 💡 About the Art
The Clothespin sculpture was created by the renowned Swedish-born artist Claes Oldenburg.
The giant Clothespin sculpture was installed in Philadelphia in 1976.
Claes Oldenburg was known for transforming everyday household items into monumental sculptures. The clothespin was a familiar object he chose to celebrate in a public space.
The sculpture is significant as a piece of pop art that brings a sense of playfulness and familiarity to the urban landscape, encouraging interaction with art in public spaces.
Yes, it remains an iconic Philadelphia landmark and a testament to Claes Oldenburg's lasting artistic legacy, even after his passing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the sculpture itself is the main draw, the surrounding plaza offers space for kids to move around. It's a good idea to combine this visit with other family-friendly spots in Philadelphia, like the Please Touch Museum or the Franklin Institute, to make a full day of exploration. Remember to keep an eye on little ones, as it's a busy public area.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – for dramatic lighting. Early mornings are also ideal for capturing the sculpture without crowds, allowing for unobstructed shots. The sculpture's bright, often metallic surface can also create interesting reflections.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Its central location near City Hall means you can easily walk or take public transport to reach it, saving on transportation costs. Combine your visit with exploring other free attractions in the city, like walking through historic neighborhoods or visiting Independence Hall (though timed tickets may be required for some parts).
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Claes Oldenburg: The Master of Monumental Pop Art
His collaborations with his wife, Coosje van Bruggen, led to some of his most famous works, including the Clothespin sculpture in Philadelphia. These pieces are not just about scale; they are about context, humor, and the democratization of art. By placing these familiar objects in unexpected urban settings, Oldenburg created landmarks that are both accessible and thought-provoking, encouraging public engagement and sparking conversations.
The Clothespin sculpture, specifically, was commissioned by the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority and installed in 1976. It stands as a testament to Oldenburg's ability to imbue a simple, functional object with a sense of grandeur and whimsy, making it a beloved and recognizable symbol of the city.
Experiencing the Clothespin Sculpture in Philadelphia
While the sculpture itself is a highlight, the surrounding area near City Hall is also worth exploring. It's a central hub in Philadelphia, offering views of other important civic buildings. However, it's important to be aware that, like many busy urban public spaces, the area can sometimes attract loitering or illicit activities, as noted by some residents. Visitors are advised to be mindful of their surroundings and watch where they step.
Despite these occasional issues, the Clothespin remains an iconic and beloved piece of Philadelphia's public art landscape. It's a free attraction that adds character and a touch of playful surrealism to the city, making it a memorable stop on any visit.
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