28-12-2023 (BARRANQUILLA) In a momentous tribute to Grammy-winning Colombian singer Shakira, renowned for being one of the world’s best-selling musicians, a colossal bronze statue capturing her iconic belly-dancing pose has been unveiled in her hometown of Barranquilla.
On December 26, the city’s Mayor, Mr. Jaime Pumarejo, revealed the impressive 6.5-meter-tall sculpture in a park situated along the banks of the Magdalena River. The singer’s parents joined the mayor for the unveiling ceremony.
Crafted by artist Yino Marquez, the statue portrays Shakira in her distinctive belly-dancing stance, with long, curly hair, arms raised overhead, clad in a sheer skirt adorned with shiny aluminum embellishments.
Mr. Pumarejo emphasized the symbolic significance of the artwork, stating that it “shows millions of girls that they can, that they can pursue their dreams and any of them can achieve what they want.” He reminisced about seeing Shakira perform at local children’s concerts in the past.
A commemorative plaque accompanying the statue lauds the singer, who clinched three Latin Grammy Awards in 2023, and highlights her charitable work through “Pies descalzos,” translating to “bare feet” in Spanish, aimed at early childhood development.
The inscription reads, “A heart that composes, hips that do not lie, an unmatched talent, a voice that moves masses and feet that march for the good of children and humanity.”
In a statement relayed through the mayor’s office, Shakira, who currently resides in Miami, expressed her gratitude for the statue and affirmed that Barranquilla will always hold a special place in her heart as her home.
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