Public Art Program  >  Dawn Shadows

200 W. Madison St.
Chicago, IL 60606

The structure and configuration of the elevated train system that gave downtown Chicago its nickname, “The Loop,” provided Louise Nevelson with the inspiration for her sculpture Dawn Shadows. Nevelson is best known for her large wooden relief sculptures composed of stacked box-enclosures and original and found objects.

Like most of her work, this steel sculpture is monochromatic and responds to the complexities of urban structures. It is intended that Dawn Shadows be viewed from all sides, with one of the best vantage points being the elevated train platform above Madison Plaza.