The next time you walk through Murillo Toro, you’ll see a very different view. A bright orange hippopotamus has transformed the everyday scene of the passageway.
This is the monumental sculpture by artist Camilo Acosta, which previously adorned the garden of the National Museum of Colombia.
Its name is“Resilience”and it is made of meters and meters of annealed wire. It measures 3.50 meters long, 2.50 meters high, and weighs nearly a ton.
The sculpture began as a metal framework, upon which the artist then shaped the hippopotamus using wire. Resting on its back are a human figure and a bird.
The Gilberto Alzate Avendaño Foundation (FUGA) is the promoter of the work, which has now been moved to the historic center for everyone to enjoy.
“It is a space that we care for, bring to life, and celebrate every day; a place where memory, creativity, diversity, and the essence of Bogotá that defines us coexist,” said Blanca Sánchez Duarte, general director of FUGA.
What does the “Resilience” hippopotamus symbolize, and how long will it be on display?
For the hippo “Resilience,” the artist won theBAT Salon of Popular Art,Colombia, Cultural and Natural DiversityAward in thePublic Artworkcategory.
Although the enormous mammal is not representative of our city, its selection was symbolic.
Since it is precisely a kind of “invader,” Camilo Acosta uses it as a metaphor for conflict and chaos.
“The work invites reflection on the country and its historical, social, and environmental tensions,” explains the city council.
When you go to visit it for a photo, be sure to take in all its details. Special mention goes to the eyes.
Take a close look at its hyperrealistic finish, despite its color.
It will be on display in Murillo Toro until the end of May 2028.
