Bloomington, Indiana – The city of Bloomington is set to welcome a new addition to its vibrant public art scene with the unveiling of OT 987, an innovative sculpture by internationally renowned Berlin-based artist Stefan Reiss. The grand unveiling will take place on Thursday, April 10, 2025, from 6 to 9 p.m. in the heart of the Trades District. The event is open to the public and promises a lively evening filled with art, music, and community celebration.
The official ceremony will be held at the intersection of Makers Way and Tenth Street, the chosen site for the installation. Attendees will hear remarks from Mayor Kerry Thomson, artist Stefan Reiss, and representatives from the Bloomington Arts Commission, beginning at 6:15 p.m. A reception will follow at the event site and at The Forge, a nearby venue located at 617 N Madison Street. The evening will feature music by DJ Good Peoples and cuisine provided by Self-Titled Vegetarian Kitchen & Catering. Though admission is free, organizers encourage guests to RSVP in advance.
OT 987 is a striking large-scale interactive sculpture that merges technology with contemporary design. Constructed from steel beams painted in vivid colors derived from Reiss’s unique “color alphabet,” the structure consists of intersecting triangular forms of varying heights. Its integrated LED lights create a constantly evolving display, filling the space with dynamic color and energy. The installation is meant to serve as both a visual landmark and an engaging experience for the community, inviting viewers to interact with its shifting lights and geometric patterns.
Commissioned as part of Bloomington’s One Percent for the Arts Program, OT 987 is the latest project funded under the city ordinance, which dedicates at least one percent of eligible municipal construction costs to public art initiatives. The sculpture was selected from a competitive pool of over 70 international artists who submitted qualifications for consideration. Following a four-week public review period, which saw more than 350 community responses, Reiss’s design was chosen for its bold aesthetic and its ability to reflect the Trades District’s spirit of innovation and creativity.
The installation aligns with the city’s broader mission to integrate art into public spaces, fostering cultural inclusivity and economic vitality through artistic engagement. Public art, according to city officials, plays a crucial role in enhancing urban environments, sparking conversation, and creating shared experiences that bring people together.
“The One Percent for the Arts Program allows us to bring world-class public art to Bloomington while supporting our values of creativity, community, and accessibility,” said Mayor Kerry Thomson. “OT 987 is a perfect example of how art can transform a space and create meaningful interactions for everyone who experiences it.”
Stefan Reiss, known for his multidisciplinary approach to art, has exhibited internationally and frequently explores the relationship between geometry, light, and movement in his work. Speaking about OT 987, he emphasized its immersive quality and the role of the audience in shaping the experience. “This sculpture is designed to be ever-changing,” Reiss said. “The way the colors and lights shift throughout the day and night means that every visit to OT 987 is a unique encounter.”
The Bloomington Arts Commission echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of public participation in selecting the artwork. “We are thrilled to see OT 987 come to life in the Trades District,” said a representative from the commission. “This project represents the power of public art to inspire and connect people across different backgrounds.”
As Bloomington continues to develop its identity as a hub for innovation and artistic expression, OT 987 stands as a symbol of the city’s commitment to fostering a creative and inclusive urban landscape. The installation not only enriches the visual environment but also invites ongoing engagement from residents and visitors alike.
With anticipation building for the unveiling, the city encourages community members to attend and take part in the celebration. Whether drawn by the artistic significance of Reiss’s work or the opportunity to experience a unique public gathering, attendees are sure to witness the transformative power of art in Bloomington’s evolving cultural scene.
