Leiria, a quaint city in Portugal, is not just known for its historical castles and stunning beaches but also for being a hub of modern art. Among the many attractions that draw tourists to this beautiful city is an impressive piece of street art by Bordalo II – Garça.
About Bordalo II
Bordalo II is an internationally acclaimed Portuguese artist who has made his mark with his unique style of creating large-scale 3D murals using discarded materials. Born Artur Bordalo in Lisbon in 1987, he adopted the name “Bordalo II” as a tribute to his grandfather Real Bordallo, who was also an artist.
The younger Bordalo’s work often carries strong environmental messages, highlighting issues related to waste production and pollution. His signature pieces are intricate animal sculptures constructed from trash collected around the cities where he works — a stark reminder of how human actions affect wildlife.
The Garça Mural
In Leiria stands one such striking mural – ‘Garça’ or ‘Heron’. This masterpiece was created as part of Leiria’s public art festival ARTURb in 2014. The heron sculpture represents one species that can be found locally along rivers and estuaries near Leiria.
This massive artwork adorns the side wall of a building on Rua Capitão Mouzinho de Albuquerque Street which has now become quite famous among locals and tourists alike for this magnificent piece. Made entirely out of discarded industrial waste like car parts, plastic barrels, old tires etc., it depicts a heron mid-flight with its wings spread wide open against the backdrop of clear blue sky painted behind it.
A Statement Piece
More than just eye-catching street art, ‘Garça’ serves as a poignant commentary on the environmental issues we face today. Bordalo II’s choice of materials — discarded waste — is symbolic of how human activity and our throw-away culture are encroaching upon natural habitats, threatening wildlife.
By transforming trash into art, Bordalo II not only raises awareness about these pressing issues but also challenges us to rethink our consumption patterns and attitudes towards waste disposal. His artwork invites us to see beauty in what we often disregard or discard, prompting conversations around recycling and sustainability.
Visiting Garça
The ‘Garça’ mural can be viewed at any time as it is located in an open public space. It has become one of Leiria’s most photographed landmarks and a must-visit for anyone interested in street art or environmental activism. The sheer size of the sculpture coupled with its intricate details makes it impossible to miss when you’re walking down Rua Capitão Mouzinho de Albuquerque Street.
Whether you’re an art aficionado or simply someone who appreciates creative expression, ‘Garça’ by Bordalo II is definitely worth checking out during your visit to Leiria. Not only will you get to witness a stunning piece of modern art up close, but it may also inspire you to think more deeply about your own impact on the environment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Leiria has much more than just traditional tourist attractions; it offers unique experiences that blend history with contemporary culture seamlessly. And among them stands tall – both literally and figuratively – ‘Garça’, an epitome of modern urban street art that carries an important message for all humanity.
Frequently asked questions
What is Bordalo II – Garça in Leiria?
Bordalo II – Garça in Leiria is a unique and captivating piece of urban art. This large-scale installation was created by the renowned Portuguese artist, Bordalo II, who is famous for his works made from waste materials. The artwork depicts a heron (Garça), which symbolizes the natural heritage of Leiria and serves as a reminder of our responsibility to protect nature.
Where can I find Bordalo II – Garça in Leiria?
The impressive artwork by Bordalo II can be found near the center of Leiria city, Portugal. Specifically, it’s located at Rua Tenente Valadim 2410-250 Leiria. It’s easily accessible on foot or by public transportation if you’re visiting other attractions within this historic city.
Can I visit Bordalo II – Garça anytime? Is there an entrance fee?
Yes, you can visit this outdoor street art installation anytime as it’s publicly displayed 24/7 throughout the year. One great advantage of this public art form is its accessibility; no tickets are required and there are no specific opening or closing hours. You’re free to admire this masterpiece whenever you wish without any cost involved.
Who is the artist behind ‘Bordalo II – Garça’?
The artist behind ‘Bordalo II – Garça’ is Artur Bordalo aka ‘Bordallo Segundo’, commonly known as Bordallo II. He was born into a family with artistic roots; his grandfather Real Bordallo was also well-known in Portugal’s arts scene during his time.
Bordallo uses end-of-life materials to create stunning works that aim to raise awareness about sustainability and environmental issues. His works are characterized by their large size and the use of vibrant colors.
What is the significance of Bordalo II – Garça in Leiria?
The ‘Bordalo II – Garça’ serves as a powerful symbol for environmental awareness. By using waste materials to create his artwork, Bordalo II sends a strong message about the impact of our consumption habits on nature. The heron depicted in this installation represents local wildlife, further emphasizing the importance of preserving natural habitats. This piece not only adds aesthetic value to Leiria but also promotes critical dialogue about sustainability and conservation efforts.
