Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, renowned for their large-scale public art installations that playfully reinterpret everyday objects, created the "Free Stamp" sculpture, which has a significant presence in Cleveland, Ohio. This iconic artwork, characterized by its enormous dimensions (49 feet long, 28 feet high, and weighing 70,000 pounds), stands out as one of the world's largest office stamps, made from aluminum and steel​ (Cleveland Historical)​.

The "Free Stamp" was initially commissioned in 1985 by the Sohio Oil Company for its new corporate headquarters in Cleveland. However, the project's destiny took an unexpected turn following the acquisition of Sohio by British Petroleum (BP). The new owners deemed the sculpture inappropriate for their building and attempted to disassociate from it. This decision sparked controversy and led to the artwork being stored away in a warehouse for a period before finally finding a home in Willard Park, after public protest and city negotiations. The sculpture's eventual placement in the park was not just a resolution to its disputed journey but also added a layer of narrative depth to the piece, emphasizing themes of freedom and resilience​ (Cleveland Public Library)​.

Oldenburg and van Bruggen's intention for the "Free Stamp" to be more than just a static piece of art is evident in its dynamic history and final presentation. Initially designed to be upright, with the word "FREE" pressed against the ground, its installation in Willard Park saw the stamp tilted on its side, making the word visible and directing it towards the BP tower. This orientation was a deliberate choice by the artists, symbolizing a form of resistance and commentary on corporate influence and the value of public art and space​ (Sculpture Center)​.

The "Free Stamp" embodies the essence of Pop Art by transforming an ordinary object into a monumental piece that engages with its environment and community. Through its tumultuous history and bold presentation, it tells a story of artistic vision, public debate, and the struggle for cultural expression in urban spaces.