### What’s That Giant Orange Crate in Front of the Tribune Tower? Chicago’s Latest Attempt at… Something
Oh Chicago, you’ve done it again! If there’s one thing this city excels at (besides pizza debates and potholes), it’s making people scratch their heads in collective confusion. This time, the culprit is a massive orange crate plopped right in front of the iconic Tribune Tower. Yes, you read that right. No, it’s not a mirage. Welcome to the latest installment of *“Is This Art or a Cry for Help?”*
For those of you who thought the bean (or *Cloud Gate*, as the artsy crowd calls it) was the height of Chicago’s avant-garde phase, think again. The newly unveiled orange crate, officially called “The Box That Won’t Be Ignored,” is here to challenge your patience, your aesthetic sensibilities, and possibly your will to live.
### Why an Orange Crate? Why Not?
Let’s dive into the deep, intellectual waters behind this choice. According to the masterminds behind the project, the crate is a “symbol of modernity and transformation.” Which, let’s be honest, is code for “we needed something big enough to get people talking, but not so big it blocks out the sun.”
The orange color? Oh, that’s not just a random choice. It’s a deliberate nod to optimism, creativity, and maybe Fanta? Who knows. The Tribune Tower, a historic building that once housed one of the nation’s most powerful media empires, now shares its space with this bold, boxy eyesore—or masterpiece, depending on how much wine you’ve had before visiting.
### What Does It Actually Do?
Ah, the million-dollar question: What is the purpose of this giant orange crate? Is it a secret portal to another dimension? Does it dispense free Wi-Fi or at least coffee? Sadly, no. According to sources (and by sources, I mean the press release), the crate serves as a “public art installation designed to prompt reflection on the nature of space and community.”
Translation: It does absolutely nothing, and you’re supposed to feel deep about it.
Oh, and before you ask, no, you can’t climb it. Apparently, people were already asking that, because nothing screams “interactive art” like scaling a giant orange box. For liability reasons, the crate is off-limits for touch, which is ironic considering how much it’s allegedly about “community engagement.”
### Pros & Cons of Chicago’s Newest ‘Innovation’
#### Pros:
– **Conversation Starter:** If nothing else, it’s a foolproof way to break awkward silences. “So, what’s up with that orange crate?” is the new “How’s the weather?”
– **Instagram Goldmine:** Love it or hate it, you’ll probably snap a pic. And let’s face it—your followers will eat it up.
– **Boosts Local Economy:** Nearby coffee shops and bars are already reporting an uptick in foot traffic. Coincidence? I think not.
#### Cons:
– **It’s… a Giant Orange Crate:** Let’s not pretend it’s anything else.
– **Polarizing Aesthetics:** Some people think it’s bold and edgy. Others think it’s an eyesore. Most are just confused.
– **No Practical Purpose:** It doesn’t even double as a shelter during Chicago’s spontaneous downpours. Missed opportunity, really.
### How Does It Compare to Other Public Art Installations?
Chicago is no stranger to quirky public art. From the iconic Picasso sculpture in Daley Plaza to the aforementioned bean (*Cloud Gate*), the city has a history of commissioning pieces that make you think—or at least pause for a selfie. But while some of these installations have stood the test of time, others have been met with… let’s call it “mixed reviews.”
For example, remember the Crown Fountain in Millennium Park? At first, people were baffled by the giant faces spitting water. Now, it’s a beloved summer staple. So who’s to say this orange crate won’t eventually win over the hearts of Chicagoans? Stranger things have happened.
### What Are People Saying?
The public’s reaction has been predictably divided. Some are praising the crate for its boldness and modernity, calling it a “visionary piece of art.” Others are less enthusiastic, with one Twitter user describing it as “an oversized Home Depot delivery gone wrong.”
Local businesses, meanwhile, are cautiously optimistic. “Anything that brings more people to the area is good for us,” said one coffee shop owner. “But honestly, I don’t get it. Is it supposed to be a joke?”
Even tourists are intrigued. “We came to see the Tribune Tower, but this orange thing stole the show,” said a couple visiting from Ohio. “It’s… different. We’ll say that.”
For a city that’s no stranger to controversy (*cough* the parking meter deal *cough*), the orange crate is just another day in the life of Chicago.
### Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Seeing?
If you’re in the area, sure, why not? It’s not every day you get to see a giant orange crate pretending to be art. And hey, it’s free, so you’ve got nothing to lose except a few minutes of your time—and maybe a little bit of your sanity.
For those who can’t make it in person, don’t worry. The internet is already flooded with photos, hot takes, and memes. You’re not missing much, unless you’re the kind of person who gets FOMO over public art installations.
### Call-to-Action
What do you think of Chicago’s latest art stunt? Is it a bold statement or just a giant orange mistake? Share your thoughts in the comments below! And while you’re at it, check out our article on the history of ‘The Bean’ for more public art shenanigans. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on Chicago’s quirkiest trends!
For more on the intersection of art, tech, and urban planning, be sure to read this insightful analysis from ArtNews. And if you’re curious about the Tribune Tower’s transformation, this piece from the Chicago Tribune has all the details.
