Esculturas de Colombia: The Cats of the River: A Cultural and Artistic Icon of Cali

The Cats of the River: A Cultural and Artistic Icon of Cali

Material: Mainly fiberglass

Sculptor: Alejandro Valencia Tejada, with the involvement of various artists (see each sculpture)

Inauguration: 2006

The "Gatas del Río" (Cats of the River) in Cali, Colombia, are much more than just sculptures: they represent an artistic and cultural project that has deeply shaped the identity of the city. This collection of statues, which includes the iconic Gatas and the original Gato del Río, has transformed the urban landscape of the capital of Valle del Cauca. These public art pieces, which have been intervened by several local and national artists, not only decorate the city but also tell the story of a symbolic love between the Gato del Río and his new feline companions, the Gatas del Río.

Photograph: Leonardo Bernal Tobón
The River Cat - Close-up of the face and bird on its tail
Sculptor: Hernando Tejada

The project was initiated by the Cali Chamber of Commerce with the aim of recovering and enhancing the original Gato del Río monument (created by Hernando Tejada in 1996) and revitalizing the surrounding area, especially the spaces near the Cali River. Thus, a fascinating bond was created between the original sculpture and the new 16 Gatas, a project that, over the years, has transcended art to become a key element of Cali's culture.

Origins and Context of the Project
The story of the Gatas del Río began in 2003 when the renowned sculptor Hernando Tejada, along with his nephew Alejandro Valencia, began developing the idea to expand his famous Gato del Río. Tejada, known for his ability to combine art and nature, imagined a series of felines in various poses, which would inhabit the main avenues of Cali, particularly Calle 5, a highly trafficked road that connects several central points of the city.

Calle 5 is not only emblematic for its location but also for its dynamism. Filled with shops, restaurants, and urban life, the street became the perfect spot for the sculptures to blend into the daily life of the people of Cali. Tejada, a strong believer in the power of public art, saw these sculptures as a way to create a symbolic and physical connection between the citizens and their environment, linking urban space with art.

Creative Process and Materialization of the Sculptures
The work to bring the Gatas del Río to life was long and detailed. Alejandro Valencia Tejada, nephew of Hernando Tejada, was in charge of leading the process. With training in ceramics and casting, Valencia applied advanced techniques such as sand casting and lost wax casting to shape the sculptures. The figures were initially modeled in his workshop and later reproduced in fiberglass by the caster Wilmer Ramírez, who played a crucial role in the creation of each cat and in coordinating with various artists who, with their talent and creativity, transformed these pieces into true works of art.

The "La Novia del Gato" Competition and Public Exhibition
In the early years, the project included competitions and activities that actively engaged the local community. Among them, one of the most notable was the "La Novia del Gato" competition, a popular vote to choose the most beloved cat. In addition, the organizers invited public participation in contests such as "Best Love Letter to the Cat" or "Best Children's Story about the Love Between the Feline Couple," creating an emotional and symbolic bond between the sculptures and the people of Cali.

Before being permanently placed along Calle 5, the Gatas were exhibited in various parts of the city. During this process, new sculptures were also added, thus expanding the original set of 16 cats.

Inauguration and Cultural Impact
Finally, in 2013, after over a decade of work, the Gatas del Río were officially inaugurated. This event not only celebrated art and creativity but also the emotional connection the statues had created with the local community. The cat statues, which vary in size and shape, quickly captured the attention of both locals and tourists. Each cat has its own character, reflecting a variety of styles from classic to contemporary, making them unique and attractive to those who observe them.

The Gatas del Río: A Symbol of Identity and Pride
The success of the Gatas del Río is due to their unmistakable artistic style, which has managed to blend local symbolism with a modern aesthetic. The sculptures have not only transformed Calle 5 into an open-air art gallery, but they have also become a symbol of Cali’s identity. Through the Gatas, the citizens of Cali have embraced these figures, which are now part of the city’s collective memory.

In addition to their artistic value, the Gatas del Río have had a significant impact on Cali’s tourism. Tourists, both national and international, visit the city with the aim of seeing these statues and taking photographs with them. This influx of visitors has benefited local businesses, restaurants, and tourism services, generating a substantial economic movement for the city.

Artistic Interventions and Cultural Activities
The Gatas del Río have not only had a visual impact but have also inspired cultural activities that strengthen the bond between art and the community. On several occasions, the sculptures have been dressed in accessories and thematic costumes, such as scarves, hats, or even traditional garments, becoming the center of artistic events and festivities. These interventions not only provide a sense of freshness and dynamism but also reinforce public interaction with the sculptures, promoting active community participation.

Social Impact and Controversies
However, the project has not been without controversy. The Gatas del Río have been the subject of discussions regarding their preservation and location, especially when urban projects have threatened to relocate or move them from their original spot. The need to preserve the city’s artistic heritage has sparked a debate about the future of the sculptures, although the people of Cali continue to defend their permanence in public spaces.

Legacy and Future of the Gatas del Río
Despite these challenges, the Gatas del Río continue to be a cultural reference for Cali. The project has demonstrated the power of public art to strengthen local identity and create a space of connection between people and their urban environment. The legacy of the Gatas goes beyond their physical presence on the streets of the city; it is a testament to how art can enrich public space and improve urban life quality.

Alejandro Valencia and the Preservation of Artistic Heritage
It is important to note that, in addition to his work on the Gatas del Río, Alejandro Valencia has played a crucial role in the preservation and restoration of the city’s artistic heritage. He has been involved in the restoration of important murals and monuments by Hernando Tejada, such as the murals at the San Fernando Telefónica and the Railway Station, as well as the Lucy Tejada Aqueduct Plant. He has also managed the process for naming the Pereira Cultural Center after the prominent artist Lucy Tejada, consolidating his role as a guardian of the region’s artistic legacy.

Conclusion
The Gatas del Río are, without a doubt, an example of how public art can transform a city, promoting not only tourism and the economy but also a sense of belonging and pride within the community. Through the vision of Hernando Tejada, Alejandro Valencia, and the various artists who have intervened in the sculptures, Cali has found a new form of artistic expression that, over the years, has become one of its greatest cultural symbols. This project has left an indelible mark on the city, showing the power of art to connect people with their history and surroundings, ensuring that the Gatas del Río remain a living emblem of creativity and the spirit of Cali.

References:
Bernal Tobón, L. (1996-2014). Photographs of the Gatas del Río.
Cámara de Comercio de Cali. (2006). Gatas del Río: A Public Art Project.
Valencia, A. (2014). Restoration of Cali’s Artistic Heritage.

July 3, 1996