“Hondalea”, the Marine Abyss ecological art structure was inaugurated in Donostia- San Sebastian in Spain on June 2nd.
Hondalea. Photo taken from @GeoParkea on Twitter
The permanent piece was constructed in the artist's hometown of San Sebastian on Santa Clara Island in the Basque.Cristina Iglesias created the art piece to provide citizens with a meeting place to reflect on the value of the environment. Inspired by the wild nature of the island and the seabed, the bronze structure resembles a geological strata and has water flushing through it.
“This project connects to defending nature and the seas and their coasts”, said Iglesias of the sculpture, which took five years to construct.
“Hondalea” is tucked away in the derelict lighthouse on the remote island. Iglesias envisages visitors having a contemplative experience as they view the rocks and waves on their way to the lighthouse.
The sculptor worked with local architects, nature experts, and scientists to ensure that the flora and fauna in the bay were unharmed. Care was also taken to preserve the natural rhythm of the tides. As the “Hondalea” is not visible on the outside, the landscape has remained unscathed.
Despite Iglesias's well-meaning intentions, the project has been met with some opposition. One group, Bizi Lagun Ekin, tweeted that by attracting tourism, the artwork may in effect, result in environmental degradation.
“Hondalea” adds to the long list of art pieces by Iglesias through which she engenders dialogue for conservation.
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