Eriza-Dos (Martiza Vázquez) Malecon II Puerto Vallarta
Summary
- The sculpture was created by the artist BLU (Maritza Vázquez) who’s inspiration was the sea urchin.
- The sculpture resembles a sea urchin or underwater mine and connects the city with its constant companion, the sea.
- Eriza-Dos is placed where Libertad Street intersects the Paseo Díaz Ordaz / Malecón.
- Eriza-Dos is part of the Open-Air Art Gallery that’s the Malecon, a seaside promenade/boardwalk that was remodeled in 2011 and is now exclusive for pedestrians and a bike path area too.
Introduction
A unique sculpture that makes you think of a sea urchin or maybe some 2nd WW underwater mines, these rusty prickly pears are found where Libertad street intersects Malecón II.
Close to the statue of San Pascual Bailón and the Vitea Café on the malecón extension south of the Naval Museum, you’ll find these iron sea urchins.
The name is a wordplay, “erizados” means bristling, but separated in “eriza”, could mean a female urchin, and “dos”, you should know is two in Spanish, that is two urchins.
Eriza-dos, Blu (Martiza Vazquez) Plaque
This sculpture was created and donated by BLU, also known as Maritza Vazquez, an artist from the city of Guadalajara. It’s a creation that connects the city with its constant companion, the sea.
Inaugurated on May 16th, 2007, it was actually part of a temporary exhibition, but the artist decided to leave it in Vallarta after seeing how well it was received by the locals.
The sculpture as mentioned depicts two steel sea urchins and required a lot of hard work, but the final sculpture also conveys the idea of life and movement to the viewer.
About the artist BLU – Maritza Vázquez
Martiza Vázquez (BLU)
Born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico in 1963. Artist Maritza “Blu” Vazquez works out of both Guadalajara, in the country of Mexico, and San Antonio, in the state of Texas.
Her work, which explores abstract forms inspired by her investigation of aquatic life, is created using a broad array of materials and draws inspiration from the fact that she is an experienced scuba diver.
In 1986, Vazquez graduated from the Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara with a bachelor’s degree in visual arts. . The sculptors Diego Martínez Negrete and Saúl Hernández Santoyo opened the doors of their artistic foundries to teach her everything related to bronze casting and patina. She then decided to try out the use of steel in industrial workshops with the intention of making larger format pieces. Vazquez’s work has been exhibited internationally
- Her passion for scuba diving has been a source of inspiration to produce most of her work.
- Experimentation is an important part of her artistic work.
- She is convinced that the essence of the materials used helps define the idea that she seeks to convey.
- Active since 1986, she has exhibited her pieces in galleries, museums, and public spaces in Mexico and the United States of America.
- She has permanent works on the boardwalk in Puerto Vallarta and many of her creations are part of important private collections.
Eriza-dos, Blu (Martiza Vazquez)
She went to Monterrey, Nuevo León, several times a year for two years to work on the “Corals” series with Generoso Villarreal. Villarreal makes steel sculptures for artists like Tamayo, Felguérez, Gunther Gerszo, Aceves Navarro, Colunga, Sebastián, and Friedebeg, among others.
Her work has been shown all over the world in galleries, museums, and other public places. Sotheby’s in New York sold one of her pieces.
She is still involved in the arts world, and since 2011, she has been on the Board of Directors of Blue Star Contemporary in San Antonio, Texas.
Where is Eriza-Dos Located?
You’ll find Eriza-Dos located on what is called Malecón II, the boardwalk piece located south of The Friendship Fountain (The Dancing Dolphins) and north of the pedestrian bridge over the Cuale River.
Where Libertad Street intersects the Malecon II, that’s where this sculpture is located.
More sculptures
Author: M. A. Gallardo
FAQ
- What is the safest part of Puerto Vallarta to stay in?
The Marina and the Romantic Zone are considered some of the safest areas to stay in Puerto Vallarta. Both areas are popular among tourists and offer a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and attractions. The Marina is known for its upscale atmosphere, luxury resorts, and high-end shops and restaurants. It has a very secure, controlled environment with 24/7 security personnel. The Romantic Zone offers a more authentic Mexican experience with cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and a vibrant mix of galleries, cafes, and bars. As a central tourist area, it also has a strong police presence and is considered very safe.
- Where do locals go in Puerto Vallarta?
Locals in Puerto Vallarta enjoy spending time at the city’s beautiful beaches, scenic parks, and lively local markets. Popular beach spots include Playa de Oro, Playa Las Animas, and Playa Camarones for their soft sand and calm waters. Many locals visit the Vallarta Botanical Gardens to enjoy the lush vegetation and hiking trails. They also frequent authentic local food venues like Birrieria las 3 Regiones taco stand, cafes like Cafecito Vallarta, and neighborhood bars like La Cerveceria Union. The downtown Lazaro Cardenas market is a favorite for produce, spices, crafts.
- Is Downtown Puerto Vallarta nice?
Yes, downtown Puerto Vallarta is an exceptionally nice and popular area, celebrated for its vibrant mix of historic Mexican charm and a lively beach town atmosphere. It features a picturesque historic center with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and the iconic Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe church. The downtown seamlessly blends into the scenic Malecón, a beautiful oceanfront boardwalk lined with fascinating sculptures, shops, and restaurants, making it perfect for strolling and enjoying the stunning ocean views.
The area offers an excellent variety of dining, from upscale restaurants to authentic street food, along with fantastic shopping in boutiques and art galleries. Adjacent to the main center is the popular Zona Romántica (Romantic Zone), known for its trendy vibe and energetic nightlife. The entire downtown is considered safe and is very walkable, allowing visitors to easily explore its captivating blend of culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty on foot.
Tip: For an unforgettable experience, head down to the Malecón or any beachfront spot about 30 minutes before the scheduled sundown to watch the spectacular sunset over the bay.
- What is considered old town in Puerto Vallarta?
Old Town, also known as the Romantic Zone or Zona Romántica, is considered the historic heart of Puerto Vallarta. It is characterized by its picturesque cobblestone streets, classic whitewashed buildings, red-tiled roofs, and a lively mix of shops, galleries, restaurants and bars. Nestled between the Sierra Madre mountains and Banderas Bay, Old Town has a traditional Mexican village charm with its colonial architecture and slower pace compared to the rest of Puerto Vallarta. Its romantic ambience comes from the area’s natural beauty, outdoor cafes, and charming boutique hotels. Old Town offers visitors a taste of an authentic Mexican neighborhood.
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