The City Council of Madrid has announced that the sculpture 'Julia', created by renowned artist Jaume Plensa, will remain in the plaza de Colón until December 2027. This extension follows an agreement signed by Marta Rivera de la Cruz, the City Council's delegate for Culture, Tourism and Sport, and Fernando Masaveu, president of the María Cristina Masaveu Peterson Foundation (FMCMP).
Unveiled in December 2018, 'Julia' has become a significant landmark in the Madrid landscape, known for its calming presence and ability to inspire introspection. The sculpture, standing at 12 metres tall, depicts a head with closed eyes, crafted from polyester resin and white marble dust. It is the first of its kind exhibited by Plensa in Spain.
Commissioned by the FMCMP as part of its artistic patronage projects, 'Julia' invites viewers to reflect on the inner beauty that resides within themselves. Plensa, who received the Velázquez Prize for the Arts in 2013, often explores themes of knowledge and human emotion through his giant head sculptures, which serve as containers of these profound concepts.
In June, the City Council undertook maintenance work on the sculpture to ensure its preservation. Madrid Destino, the entity responsible for the public space where 'Julia' is located, coordinated the operational, technical, and administrative aspects of the intervention, including securing necessary permits and ensuring safety measures. The FMCMP covered the costs associated with this maintenance effort.
Jaume Plensa, born in Barcelona in 1955, is celebrated for his works that delve into the essence of being, encompassing physical and spiritual dimensions. His extensive career has seen him exhibit in numerous countries and he has a significant presence in public spaces worldwide. Plensa's artistic journey began in the 1980s, and he has since become a prominent figure in contemporary art, teaching and lecturing at prestigious institutions globally.
