World’s Largest Clothespin, a massive public sculpture that transforms a simple household object into a striking work of urban art. Erected in 1976 by artist Claes Oldenburg, the 45-foot-tall (13.7 meters) steel structure has become an iconic landmark along downtown Oakland’s streetscape.
Crafted from steel and painted a bright, glossy red, the sculpture mirrors the familiar design of a classic wooden clothespin, yet its monumental size gives it an unexpected sense of humor and whimsy. Oldenburg, known for turning ordinary objects into public art, intended the piece to provoke thought, amusement, and engagement with the urban environment.
The clothespin has become a symbol of Oakland’s creative spirit, attracting tourists, photographers, and art enthusiasts. Its presence near public offices and transit hubs sparks curiosity and conversation, demonstrating how art can elevate the mundane into the extraordinary.
Recognized as the World’s Largest Clothespin, the sculpture has stood for decades as a testament to public art’s power to transform city spaces. It highlights how scale, imagination, and everyday objects can combine to create landmarks that are both culturally significant and visually unforgettable.
