The Rotunda of the Sea by Alejandro Colunga Wows the World " />

Surreal Puerto Vallarta Artwork by Alejandro Colunga Wows the World

You’ve posed among its 8 surreal thrones on the Malecon, but did you know that’s exactly what the sculptor of The Rotunda of the Sea intended? A self-taught Mexican expressionist, Alejandro Colunga has been making interactive art for nearly 50 years.

Puerto Vallarta Sculpture Tours

Enter an Otherworldly Realm of Puerto Vallarta Artwork

La Rotonda del Mar

If you’ve ever walked the seaside Malecon in Puerto Vallarta, sculptures glistening in the sunset, you’ve surely stumbled upon the eerie circle of towering bronze chairs at Calle Aldama entitled, “La Rotonda del Mar,” or “The Rotunda of the Sea.” Inaugurated in 1996, this striking sculptural installation is by Alejandro Colunga, a self-taught artist from Guadalajara who now lives PV. There are eight seats in total, adorned with imaginary forms, human features, and marine accents like an octopus, diver’s helmet, and telescopic eye. Next time you see them, be sure to stop and take a seat, pose for a photo, climb around and enjoy the work as the artist intended.

Other Places to Find His Sculptures

Fernando Colunga, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit

Since emerging on the international art scene nearly 50 years ago, Colunga’s work has been displayed in countless exhibitions across Europe and the Americas. One of his token thrones even greets guests at the local all-inclusive resort, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit. As if belonging in “La Rotunda” itself, the massive chair is in the shape of a long-nosed, large-footed wizard holding an orb, easel at his side etched with the words, “Aqui Empieza la Magia,” or “The Magic Begins Here.” Colunga’s paintings and sculptures are part of the permanent collection at a number of museums around the world as well, such as:

  • San Antonio Museum of Art
  • Arizona State University Art Museum
  • Nassau County Museum of Art (NY)
  • Berardo Collection Museum (Portugal)
  • Museo Amparo (Puebla, Mexico)
rotunda of the sea
 
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