In a heartwarming tribute to one of Colombia’s beloved musical treasures, Shakira, the coastal city of Barranquilla unveiled a towering 21-foot statue capturing the essence of the Grammy-winning artist. The monumental bronze sculpture, crafted by sculptor Yino Márquez, stands as a testament to Shakira’s impact on Colombian culture and global music.
The statue, adorned in a maroon outfit, showcases Shakira in the midst of her iconic belly dance, symbolizing the fusion of Syrian-Lebanese influences with the vibrant Caribbean spirit. Márquez, the artist behind the masterpiece, expressed his joy at the positive reception from both the public and Shakira herself.
“Shakira herself called me and told me that I captured her essence very well in the sculpture. That her son saw the sculpture and said that it is the most beautiful sculpture he has ever seen,” Márquez shared, highlighting the personal touch Shakira brought to the project.
For the 46-year-old singer, born in Barranquilla, this homage goes beyond artistic recognition. Shakira, now mostly residing in Miami, maintains a strong connection with her hometown. She returns several times a year, funds schools, and spearheads a foundation dedicated to enhancing early childhood education in Colombia.
The statue, a five-month labor of love, not only mirrors Shakira’s iconic dance moves but also incorporates symbolic elements. The aluminum skirt represents the waves of the Caribbean Sea and the Magdalena River, while her upraised arms will eventually cradle a light, illuminating the statue at night.
Mayor Jaime Pumarejo, the visionary behind the project, shared his enthusiasm for honoring significant Barranquilla figures to boost tourism and inspire the youth. The statue of Shakira, along with another representing the city’s coat of arms, collectively cost around $180,000.
“Shakira is a symbol of effort, discipline, and progress,” Márquez emphasized, portraying the singer as a fighter and an inspiration. The artist recalled meeting Shakira when she was just 15, watching her evolve into a global sensation. When tasked with sculpting her likeness, Márquez found Shakira deeply involved, ensuring an accurate representation.
Tourists from across the country flocked to the Barranquilla boardwalk to witness the statue’s unveiling, praising its accuracy and significance. One visitor remarked, “It makes us feel very proud to be Colombians. It also represents an icon, a woman who has done so much for Colombia.”
In a world where music transcends borders, Barranquilla’s tribute to Shakira becomes not just a statue but a symbol of pride, a melody echoing through the hearts of Colombians and music enthusiasts worldwide.
Also Read:
