Miro's Statue
Standing in the plaza between Chicago's City Hall and the Daley Center, this towering 39-foot sculpture by Joan Miró is a burst of bold color and organic form that rewards close attention from a camera. The figure's mosaic-tiled surface, earthy terracotta tones, and abstract feminine shape give you strong graphic material to work with. Shoot from low and wide to exaggerate the sculpture's height against the surrounding glass towers, or move in tight with a standard or short telephoto lens to isolate the textured ceramic details. Overcast days are ideal since they eliminate harsh shadows and let the colors read clearly; bright midday sun can flatten the surface or blow out the lighter tiles. The surrounding plaza is open and flat, so you have room to circle the piece and find the angle where the urban backdrop best complements the form. (Chicago, Illinois, United States)
