What colossal horns rise against the Mexico City sky? We stand before Señal, a sculpture as intriguing as its name suggests. Señal, meaning “Signals” in Spanish, isn’t just a striking piece of art. It carries a powerful message woven into its concrete form. Created by Angela Gurría in 1968, Señal was originally part of the Ruta de la Amistad (Friendship Route), a series of sculptures commissioned for the 1968 Olympics. This 18-meter tall sculpture, made entirely of reinforced concrete, was originally placed at the Glorieta de San Jerónimo. Later, it was moved to its current location at the intersection of Periférico Sur and Insurgentes Sur.
Señal was more than just an Olympic decoration. It represented the “de-segregation” of the games, welcoming a larger number of African nations than ever before. This was a significant moment, as athletes from these countries, along with African American athletes from the United States, demanded the exclusion of South Africa due to its apartheid policies. The prominent presence of Black athletes contributed to the success of the 1968 Olympics, and Señal stands as a silent testament to their impact. The sculpture’s two horns, one black and one white, symbolize this powerful message of unity and inclusion. The concrete base, interestingly, forms a horseshoe shape when viewed from above, a traditional symbol of good luck.
Over the years, Señal, like many of the Ruta de la Amistad sculptures, fell into disrepair. However, in 1998, the Moisés Cosío family funded its restoration, ensuring that this powerful symbol would continue to inspire. Angela Gurría, a self-taught sculptor who later studied with Germán Cueto, expertly used steel and concrete to create this monumental work. The steel structure provided the initial form, which was then covered with wire mesh and layered with concrete. The solid concrete base acts as a counterweight to the towering horns. It is a testament to the enduring power of art to communicate important social and historical messages. Señal stands tall, a reminder of the 1968 Olympics and a beacon of hope for a more inclusive future.