The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City has unveiled “Kicks 66,” a 35-foot sculpture designed to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Historic Route 66. The project, commissioned through the city’s 1% for Art ordinance, is being submitted by artist Cameron Eagle to Guinness World Records for the world’s tallest boot.
How “Kicks 66” Shapes Public Art Trends
Public art is increasingly moving toward interactive, “Instagrammable” installations that encourage tourist engagement. Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt confirmed that the city specifically sought a project that would serve as a landmark for photo opportunities. By integrating lyrics from the iconic song “Route 66”—specifically “Oklahoma City looks mighty pretty”—the statue functions as both a cultural monument and a social media destination. This trend reflects a broader shift in urban planning where municipalities prioritize art that serves as a tangible anchor for city branding.
Why Site-Specific Art Matters for Tourism
The placement of “Kicks 66” at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum is a strategic effort to link Route 66 history with existing cultural tourism. According to Eagle, the project is a deeply local endeavor; he grew up in Oklahoma and his grandfather worked on the original construction of the 8.5 miles of the highway between Weatherford and Hydro. By leveraging local heritage, the city creates a narrative that resonates with travelers seeking authentic experiences rather than generic roadside attractions.
Comparing Architectural Records
The competition for “world’s largest” status often drives innovation in public art. The following table compares the new Oklahoma City installation with the boots in San Antonio:
| Feature | Kicks 66 (OKC) | San Antonio Boots |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 35 feet | 35 feet, 3 inches |
| Status | Submitted for record | Installed 1980 |
Future Outlook for Route 66 Infrastructure
As the centennial of the highway approaches, cities along the route are expected to increase investment in beautification projects. Mayor Holt noted that the city’s strategy involves identifying specific cultural assets—such as the Thunder, Native American heritage, and the Route 66 legacy—and creating physical manifestations of these themes. This approach suggests that future infrastructure projects will likely focus on historical preservation paired with modern, high-visibility art installations to maintain the highway’s relevance for a new generation of road-trippers.
If you visit the statue at 1700 NE 63rd, look for the detailed textures on the prickly pear cactus elements, which were modeled after photographs of real cacti taken across Oklahoma City by the artist.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where is the Kicks 66 boot located? It is situated on the grounds of the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum at 1700 NE 63rd in Oklahoma City.
- Who designed the sculpture? Oklahoma native Cameron Eagle designed the piece in collaboration with Jim Gleason.
- Is the boot officially the tallest in the world? Eagle has announced plans to submit the sculpture to Guinness World Records to officially certify its status as the world’s tallest.
- How was this project funded? It was funded through the City of Oklahoma City’s 1% for Art ordinance, which allocates a percentage of construction budgets for public art.
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