Cloud Embrace sculpture unveiled in Bricktown

A new public art installation has been unveiled in downtown Oklahoma City as Cloud Embrace officially opened Wednesday during a ribbon cutting ceremony in Bricktown.

Located in United Way Plaza near Reno Avenue and Walnut Avenue along the Bricktown Canal, the large-scale sculpture was commissioned by Visit Oklahoma City and Inasmuch Foundation and gifted to the City of Oklahoma City as part of the plaza’s recent reimagining.

Designed by Creative Machines, the immersive installation stands approximately 24 feet tall and 40 feet wide. Its open structure allows visitors to walk inside the sculpture, creating opportunities to experience the artwork from multiple perspectives while also serving as a new gathering and photo destination in the district.

The sculpture features perforated steel panels finished in vibrant colors that cast shifting patterns of light and shadow throughout the day. At night, integrated color-changing LED lighting transforms the installation into a glowing visual centerpiece along the canal.

Creative Machines President and Artistic Director Joseph O’Connell said the design was inspired by Oklahoma City’s expansive skies.

“This immersive art experience was inspired by Oklahoma City’s incredible skies which frequently demonstrate how clouds are a canvas for light and color,” O’Connell said.

Christy Gillenwater, president and CEO of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber, said the installation reflects the way public art can support activity and connection in the city’s entertainment districts.

“Business, art and entertainment intersect in our vibrant districts across OKC,” Gillenwater said. “We hope Cloud Embrace brings renewed energy and interest to Lower Bricktown as visitors and locals meet up with friends and explore the area.”

The installation was funded through a combination of federal American Rescue Plan Act dollars and an Inasmuch Foundation grant.