Rising majestically before us stands Arbórea Magna. This monumental sculpture is a captivating blend of art, technology, and nature. It redefines the Buenos Aires skyline. Inaugurated in the Innovation Park, Arbórea Magna is more than just a sculpture. It is a symbol of the city’s forward-thinking spirit.
Nicola Costantino is the brilliant mind behind Arbórea Magna. She is a renowned Argentine artist from Rosario. Costantino’s vision was to create a public artwork that resonates with the park’s innovative atmosphere. Her design won a competition. It aimed to create a landmark for the newly established Innovation Park in Núñez. She wanted the Arbórea Magna to have a similar impact like the Floralis Genérica in Plaza Naciones Unidas.
Arbórea Magna is a towering tree-robot. It stands 34 meters tall. The structure features over 750 dynamic LED lights powered by solar energy. These lights create a mesmerizing display. They change the sculpture’s appearance. The trunk is built from 16 galvanized iron tubes. This support is both industrial and striking.
The sculpture’s exterior showcases the ancient Japanese Nerikomi technique. Costantino collaborated with students from the Ceramics School No 1 of Buenos Aires. Together they crafted the ceramic elements. These pieces mimic tree bark. They feature natural patterns and textures. Visitors can walk along curved pathways. This allows to closely observe the intricate details. The pathways lead to a vantage point.
Eli Sirlin is the architect and lighting design expert. She designed Arbórea Magna’s complex lighting system. The lighting enhances the artwork’s visibility day and night. It creates diverse scenarios for visitors.
“Arbórea” means tree-like. Though the sculpture resembles a tree. It does not represent a specific species. Instead, it honors the plant universe. “Magna” highlights the sculpture’s large scale. It is designed to be seen from afar.
Arbórea Magna stands above an artificial pond. It creates a striking contrast between industrial and natural elements. The sculpture invites visitors to reflect. It makes them consider the relationship between humanity and nature. It encourages thoughts about science and technological advancements.
You can visit Arbórea Magna day or night. However, the nighttime experience is different. The lights illuminate the sculpture from dusk until 10 p.m. Guided tours are available on Saturdays at 5 p.m.
As you stand here, consider the words of Nicola Costantino. She says ceramics connect her to the past and future. Through Arbórea Magna, she becomes time. She creates a lasting legacy for Buenos Aires.