Resistencia Sculptures
Chaco
Resistencia Sculptures refer to the extensive collection of over 530 public sculptures spread throughout the city of Resistencia, Argentina, known as the City of Sculptures. This cultural heritage originated from the Resistencia Biennial International Sculptures Contest, established in 1988 and sponsored by UNESCO. The contest invites regional, national, and international sculptors to create their works in open air over a week, in front of visitors, fostering an interactive cultural experience. Organized by Fundación Urunday since 1989, the event has evolved from a local wood carving competition to an international biennial featuring various materials including marble and metals. The sculptures are permanently installed across the city, notably in the Paseo Costanero del Río Negro and Laguna Argüello areas, enriching public spaces with artistic expression. The biennial also includes art seminars, concerts, and cultural activities, making it a major event for Resistencia. The contest's history reflects its growth and significance, with the city declared the National Capital of Sculptures in 2006. Resistencia offers visitors a unique blend of outdoor art, cultural events, and the warmth of its community, inviting all to explore its sculptural heritage.
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Tip: Visitors should plan to attend the contest week, usually held in July, to witness live sculpting and enjoy accompanying cultural events like seminars and concerts. Tickets for events may be available for purchase in advance, and discounts for groups or students might be offered. The best time to visit Resistencia to experience the sculptures is during the biennial event, but the sculptures are permanently accessible year-round in public spaces. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended to explore the city’s outdoor sculpture trails. Checking the official Fundación Urunday website can provide updated schedules and visitor information.
Interesting facts
- •Resistencia is nicknamed the City of Sculptures due to its more than 530 public sculptures.
- •The contest was initially focused on wood carving using Urunday wood, later expanding to marble and metals.
- •UNESCO has sponsored the event since 1997, highlighting its cultural importance.
- •The city was declared the National Capital of Sculptures in 2006.
- •Sculptures created during the contest are placed permanently around the city, often in parks and promenades like Paseo Costanero del Río Negro and Laguna Argüello.
History
The Resistencia Biennial International Sculptures Contest began in 1988 as a national wood sculpture competition.
In 1989, Fundación Urunday was established to organize the event.
Over time, it expanded internationally and diversified materials used, including marble and metals, to preserve local forests.
Since 1997, UNESCO has supported the contest, which became biennial from 2000 onward.
In 2006, Resistencia was declared the National Capital of Sculptures, reflecting the city's cultural identity shaped by the event.
The sculptures are permanently installed in public spaces, contributing to the city's artistic landscape.
Place Guide
Paseo Costanero del Río Negro
A prominent outdoor area where many sculptures from the biennial are displayed, offering visitors a scenic walk along the river enriched with diverse artistic works.
Laguna Argüello
A recently renovated lagoon area in Resistencia hosting numerous sculptures from past contests, integrating art with natural surroundings for public enjoyment.
Contact
Phone: 0362 441-5020
