The installation of a new Shakira statue has already begun in Barranquilla. The 6.2-meter-high (20-foot) bronze statue will be located in the third phase of the Grand Malecón and is expected to be inaugurated before the end of 2023.
The third phase of the Gran Malecón will have 650 linear meters and about 3 more hectares of public spaces currently under construction by the District. This area includes various recreational, sports, and healthy entertainment activities.
The Artist
The artist Yino Márquez, affiliated with the La Paz Cultural Center and serving as the coordinator of the Plastic Arts programs at the Escuela Distrital de Arte y Tradiciones Populares (EDA), crafted the 6.2-meter-high bronze structure.
Currently, shading nets protected by scaffolding cover the statue, revealing only its hands.
Shakira shared an Alcaldía video to her Instagram stories expressing her gratitude for the work done in her name. “I feel moved and deeply grateful for this honor created by Márquez and his team. He is an extraordinary talent from my land.”
She also thanked the mayor and the city for the affection they have given her during her journey in the music industry.
The idea of erecting a statue in honor of Shakira in the city has gained popularity. Residents argue that the artist, born in Barranquilla, has proudly and talentedly brought the name of Barranquilla to international stages.
The statue is a symbol of unity and pride for Barranquilla. While the city contemplates the possibility of immortalizing its most famous daughter in bronze, opinions converge to recognize the lasting impact that Shakira has had on the cultural identity of the city.
Since 2006, a statue in honor of Shakira has been located in the park next to the Metropolitano stadium. The German artist Dieter Patt created the statue, and it stands at a height of 5 meters.
Update: Inauguration
Shakira’s new statue was inaugurated on the Gran Malecón on Tuesday, December 26, 2023. Sharkira’s parents, William Mebarak and Nidia Ripoll, were in attendance along with the mayor, Jaime Pumarejo.
