The Calling

Which came first, The Calling or The Calatrava? In terms of vision it had to be The Calling. In terms of my personal preference, it’s the Calatrava replete with its beautiful phoenix that is a stunning landmark when open.
Except that straight in front of it is this construction orange, asterisk-​shaped object d’art made of steel beams in front of it. What a tragedy! Do I really have to give it one star? It’s a zero in my opinion! The best thing about it is its usefulness as a direction to find me. «See that ugly orange asterisk on the right? Turn toward it and follow the curve…»
Recently in a conversation with Unilocaler George T., he referred to it as the asterisk. Because I usually approach it from the side so it looks like a Circle K, I found this memorable. What sealed the deal, however, was my recent purchase of a one of a kind shirt at Brew City T-​shirts featuring the orange asterisk in the phrase Mil-f*-waukee.
Sharing that awesome art led Unilocaler in crime Carrie G. to site this thing. Now I’m reviewing it and letting the world know if we’re going to block the phoenix from a clear line of vision on the lakefront we might as well replace it with an ugly green interstate highway sign that has lakefront with an arrow.
Now, that’s art!

Special thanks and Shout out to Carrie G. For adding (The Calling) A piece of MKE art on Unilocal!
So. What is Art?
I’m certainly not an expert but I’ve been moved by a positive, warm way. A good feeling like a good song or a happy memory. Or like a phone call from an long lost friend.
I never really knew the real name of the artist or the sculpture. I’m guessing 95% of Milwaukee’s residents may not even know either. I’ve always called it the Big Orange Asterisk. Or Sunburst sculpture. When it was first installed the MAM wasn’t even built yet. There it sat at the east end of E. Wisconsin avenue. A reminder to turn L as it becomes N. Prospect ave. Some of my friends who don’t Unilocal HATE IT. They called it junk art some complained of the cost. Not really sure who paid but it. But I like the color and symmetry of this modern I beam sculpture.
Coincidentally the 4 stars above almost match the color of the big orange asterisk.
There are parking structures nearby as it’s nearby a park. I recommend walking or biking to really enjoy. If you drive by you really can’t appreciate its size and its surroundings. It would be nice to have more seating or perhaps allow a food vendor to setup a food cart.
Food: none BYOF. And beverage.
Amb: 5
Serv: none
Loc: 2 minimal seating and close parking in structure. Oddly placed IMO but it kind of goes with the Calatrava.
Value: 5 free but somebody paid pile to get it here, my guess the Milwaukee art museum owns and maintains it.
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