Vallarta Whale (Octavio González G.), entrance to Marina Vallarta, Puerto Vallarta Mexico
Summary
- The Vallarta Whale, also known as the Dancing Whale, is a monumental bronze sculpture created by Octavio González Gutiérrez in 2001.
- The sculpture depicts a humpback whale and her calf swimming through the warm waters of the bay, and it is a prominent and recognizable landmark in the Marina Vallarta area of Puerto Vallarta.
- The sculpture showcases González Gutiérrez’s love for sea life and his ability to capture the beauty and grace of these majestic creatures.
Introduction
Octavio Gonzalez is one of the most accomplished artists in Puerto Vallarta, you’ll find many of his sculptures, including co-authoring the famous Dolphin fountain on the Malecón, around town. This whale sculpture too is an important symbol for the city.
It’s the biggest sculpture in town and certainly an inspiring and impressive artistic accomplishment.
About the sculpture
The Whale and her calf, also known as “Vallarta Whale” or the “Dancing Whale” is a monumental sculpture in bronze that you can easily spot on the way into the Marina Vallarta area. It’s a humpback whale with its calf swimming through the warm waters of the bay.
Vallarta Whale by Octavio Gonzalez Gutierrez (Marina Vallarta)
This piece took over 4 years to complete and must be the largest sculpture in town, weighing over 13 tons, its 29.2 feet high (8.9m) by 42.6 feet long (13m) and it’s all masterly balanced on just one flipper and less than one square meter. This visually stunning sculpture was inaugurated on March 14th, 2001, and greets visitors arriving at the Marina Vallarta area or driving into town.
Inspiration
The artist, Octavio González Gutiérrez, states that the piece represents the family and its importance, mainly honoring the mother as the central piece and anchor of all families, who devote themselves unconditionally to their children.
In his words:” “This work is a tribute to all the women in the world, to all of them, but especially to my daughter. It means that women are the backbone of humanity, society, and the family. She is the one who maintains balance, equilibrium, and harmony. This is the woman ”
About the artist
Octavio González Gutiérrez
Octavio González Gutiérrez is a Mexican sculptor best known for his Vallarta whale. He was born in Tepatitlán de Morelos, Jalisco. Started off in the arts drawing portraits and his first sculpting jobs were busts. He learned his foundry techniques in Santa Barbara and Berkeley and opened his first workshop in Puerto Vallarta. The famous singer Vicente Fernández is one of his biggest fans and has bought many of his pieces. He has sculptures all over Mexico (La Paz, Cancún, Ciudad de México, and more) and some in the USA (Chicago & Seattle).
Where is the sculpture?
A reference point in Puerto Vallarta, where people say “I am north of the whale” or similar statements. You’ll find the whale at the entrance of Marina Vallarta, where Paseo de la Marina ends on Francisco Medina Ascencio avenue.
Smaller replicas are found in the sister cities of Mission, Texas, and Highland Park Illinois, in the USA.
Author: M. A. Gallardo
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