Oklahoma City, OK | Proposed in 2025 | Stainless-steel, vintage hubcaps, HDF letters, vinyl wrap, concrete, stone, LED lighting | Hubcap O: 15’ DIA
In celebration of the 100th anniversary of the historic Route 66 highway, the city of Oklahoma City issued a nationwide Call to Artists seeking proposals for the design of a unique, landmark artwork installation that communicates the historic spirit of the roadway. In his presentation on the artwork themes, OKC Mayor David Holt told a crowd “We’re creating a big, iconic and clearly OKC landmark to hit you over the head – an attraction that makes you want to get out of your car and learn more about Oklahoma City.”
In addition to capturing the deep heritage and shared history of Route 66 and Oklahoma City, artist proposals were to include the memorable line “Oklahoma City looks mighty pretty” from Bobby Troup’s classic “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66.” Artists were also instructed to include a public participation component in their proposals to occur during the fabrication or installation of the artwork and a public event to celebrate the dedication of the completed project.
Gordon’s concept for this iconic symbol of American “Road Culture” is rooted in the spirit of adventure and the freedom of the open road. The tradition of roadside attractions and their accompanying signage is a strong influence in this tribute to the Mother Road. A giant “O” standing 15-feet tall is covered in shining, vintage hubcaps as a distinct love letter to motorist history, Americana and old-school Route 66 styling.
The remaining letters of Oklahoma City are rendered in 5-foot-tall letters of high-density foam, covered in imagery from the confluence of OKC and Route 66 history. Below, bending in a dancing rhythm, the lyrics “Looks Mighty Pretty” are fabricated in bright powder-coated stainless-steel. As the final flourish, and satisfying the public participation component, a shaped and formed Route 66 highway icon is laid out, with each white and black stone hand-placed by OKC residents and installation participants. The completed installation is a cultural talisman that draws the eye of Route 66 travelers, beckoning them to park and experience the tradition of OKC and American highway history.
