A vibrant spectacle featuring a snake-tailed coyote and a bat-winged armadillo has taken over the Pioneer Center Plaza, drawing crowds eager to witness this outdoor marvel. The intricate designs of these towering figures captivate viewers, reflecting a rich cultural heritage.
Artown’s Latest Attraction
This year, Artown introduces eight colossal sculptures that bring Alebrijes and Nahuales to life. These sculptures, originating from Oaxaca and Mexico City, stand at an impressive 22 feet. Alebrijes serve as spirit guides, often linked to the Day of the Dead, while Nahuales are known as humans who transform into animals.
The journey of these sculptures began as small wooden carvings, each approximately a foot tall, taking up to six months to complete. Advanced technology was then employed to scale these designs into their current imposing sizes.
Construction and Installation Challenges
Despite their stunning appearance, setting up these installations is no small feat. “They are quite heavy. We need a crane. We need at least a crew of 10 people. We need a forklift,” said Romain Greco, the project producer. “But once they are installed, they can stay there for whatever time it’s necessary.”
Cultural Connection and Community Engagement
The seeds of this exhibition were planted in 2019 when Artown’s executive director, Beth Macmillan, encountered the project in New York. Enthralled by the artistic vision, she was determined to bring it to Reno for Artown’s 30th anniversary. “This is a perfect way to bring people together for our 30th anniversary. It’s an incredible public art project,” Macmillan noted, emphasizing the cultural significance and the joy it brings to the community.
Romain Greco shared similar sentiments, highlighting the importance of cultural appreciation amidst challenging political times. “I think the importance of bringing art is very meaningful to the society and to make people understand that Mexico is much more,” he expressed…