Big Blue Bear, Northern Colorado Travel Guide

The Big Blue Bear, formally known as "I See What You Mean," is a captivating public art piece located outside the Colorado Convention Center in downtown Denver. Created by artist Lawrence Argent and unveiled in 2005, this 40-foot-tall sculpture depicts a giant lapis lazuli blue bear peering curiously into the convention center's glass facade. The bear's playful and inquisitive posture has captured the hearts of locals and tourists alike, making it a must-see attraction and a symbol of Denver's vibrant arts scene.Argent drew inspiration from a newspaper photograph of a bear peering into a house, aiming to evoke a sense of curiosity and wonder in passersby. The sculpture's title, "I See What You Mean," encourages viewers to contemplate the dialogue between the bear and themselves, inviting them to consider what they are visually witnessing and sensing. The bear is made up of approximately 4,000 triangles and weighs around 10,000 pounds. The sculpture is made from fiber-reinforced polymers and concrete. The decision to make the bear blue was somewhat accidental; Argent initially planned for earth tones to reflect Colorado's natural landscape, but a blue mockup proved more striking.The Big Blue Bear has become a beloved symbol of Denver, representing the city's commitment to public art and its unique blend of urban life and natural surroundings. It is located on 14th Street between California and Stout Streets. The sculpture is accessible 24/7 and is free to visit.