“Reflect yourself,” Jaume Plensa whispers through his art. Before us stands Julia, a twelve-meter-high sculpture. It is made of polyester resin and white marble powder. She is more than just a sculpture. She is an icon of Madrid.
Julia arrived in Madrid in December 2018. She was originally slated to leave in December 2023. But her popularity led to an extension. The MarÍa Cristina Masaveu Peterson Foundation owns Julia. The foundation decided to lend her to Madrid for another year. This was before continuing her journey around the world.
Jaume Plensa created Julia with a specific purpose. His sculptures often feature heads with closed eyes. For Plensa, the head is a container. It holds human knowledge and emotions. He says his figures always have their eyes closed. He is interested in what lies within. Plensa wants viewers to see a mirror. He hopes they will reflect on the beauty hidden inside themselves.
Julia brings calm and introspection to the urban environment. She encourages tranquility and reflection. The sculpture demonstrates how art can inspire hope. This is especially true in difficult times.
Plensa is a renowned artist. He won the Velázquez Prize for the Arts in 2013. Julia marked the first time one of his works of this kind was exhibited in Spain. The MarÍa Cristina Masaveu Peterson Foundation commissioned Julia. It is part of their line of patronage art projects. Julia is part of the foundation’s art collection. The project is designed to be itinerant. After Madrid, Julia will travel to other cities worldwide.
Jaume Plensa was born in Barcelona in 1955. He considers himself a sculptor. His work incorporates literature, poetry, music, and thought. Plensa explores the human condition. He examines our physical and spiritual essence. He questions our moral codes and relationship with nature.
Plensa has exhibited extensively in Europe, the United States, and Asia. Many of his works are in public spaces. You can find his sculptures in Spain, France, Japan, England, Korea, Germany, Canada, and the United States. His notable works include the Crown Fountain in Chicago’s Millennium Park. There is also the Water’s Soul in Newport, facing Manhattan.
From 2011, a large selection of Plensa’s sculptures was exhibited at the Yorkshire Sculpture Park in West Bretton, England. In 2022, Constel·lacions was unveiled at Gran Teatre del Liceu in Barcelona, celebrating its 175th anniversary.
Julia stands on the plinth once occupied by Christopher Columbus. The square is named after Columbus. Julia is made of polyester resin and white marble dust. Plensa describes her as a work to inspire personal reflection. She stands in the hectic public space of Madrid.
As you gaze upon Julia, consider Plensa’s words. Close your eyes. Reflect on the beauty within. Let Julia’s calm presence transform your perception. Experience the power of art to encourage and inspire.