Song Bird
A Conceptual Design for the LA 2028 Olympic Cauldron
Spring 2025
Design and Digital Model by McKenna Leach
Programs Used include Rhinoceros 3D, Vectorworks, Twinmotion
The LA 2028 Olympic Cauldron is a beacon of resilience, beauty, and progress, embodying the spirit of both the Olympic Games and the state of California. Rooted in the landscapes of the Golden State, the cauldron emerges from a lush environment of native Californian plant life, paying homage to the rich biodiversity that thrives despite adversity. This natural foundation symbolizes renewal, a living testament to California’s ability to rise beyond challenges such as recent wildfires, reaffirming its strength and vitality.
The form of the sculpture takes inspiration from the Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae), a flower deeply intertwined with the identity of Los Angeles. As the official flower of the city, the Bird of Paradise has long been associated with the vibrancy and dynamic energy of LA, as well as its historical significance in past Olympic Games as it was awarded in a bouquet to medalists in the previous games held in 1984. The plant’s striking, flame-like petals and upward-reaching silhouette serve as a metaphor for the unyielding spirit of both athletes and the communities they represent. Just as the Bird of Paradise flourishes in the face of environmental challenges, this cauldron embodies perseverance, reflecting the Olympic ideals of endurance and triumph.
Designed to draw the eye ever upward, the sculpture’s ascending form mirrors the aspirations of those who gather to celebrate the Games. Its lines and movement lead the gaze skyward, reminding us to look ahead to brighter futures, filled with hope, ambition, and the unifying power of sport. The flames that rise from its peak echo this upward trajectory, reinforcing a narrative of limitless potential and human achievement.
Crafted primarily from copper, the cauldron honors California’s rich history with this metal, from the early days of mining to its use in architectural landmarks that define the state’s urban landscapes. Over time, the copper will develop a natural patina, evolving in response to its environment, just as California and its people continuously adapt and grow. This material choice grounds the cauldron in history while allowing it to transform, much like the Olympic Games themselves—a tradition that honors the past while forging ahead into the future.
The LA 2028 Olympic Cauldron is more than a vessel for the Olympic flame; it is a symbol of perseverance, unity, and the boundless dreams that define both California and the Olympic movement. It stands as a radiant landmark, inspiring generations to reach ever higher, just as the Bird of Paradise stretches toward the sky.
Full presentation for two week design project in class, complete with sketches.