Sculptural ensemble of Varela

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Artwork

District: Aveiro > Murtosa > Torreira > Quintas do Norte

Location

The Varela Sculptural Ensemble is located in the locality of Torreira, integrated into the Quintas do Norte, in Murtosa. Its position is privileged, situated next to the Varela Bridge, on the western bank of the Ria. This setting provides a tranquil environment, where the presence of the Ria is felt, inviting a calm observation of the landscape and the work of art.

An Author's Vision

This remarkable artistic creation is by Dimas Macedo (1928-2009), a sculptor native to Murtosa. The work was born from the artist's desire to leave a permanent mark on his homeland, a monumental piece that could be appreciated by everyone in the public space. The project was developed in collaboration with the local municipality, with the aim of reflecting the identity and cohesion of the municipality.

Symbolism and Composition

The sculptural ensemble is a fusion of tile and terracotta, materials chosen by Dimas Macedo to give shape to his vision. Four lateral elements, covered in tiles, represent the parishes of Murtosa, Monte, Bunheiro, and Torreira. These panels illustrate traditional activities linked to the countryside, the Ria, and the sea, also associating them with the four seasons of the year. In the center, a terracotta column rises as the unifying element of the work, where the same images from the lateral panels are sculpted in bas-relief, reinforcing the message of unity of the municipality.

Legacy and Inauguration

The realization of this monumental work, whose pieces were produced by Aleluia Cerâmicas in Aveiro, culminated in its inauguration on November 12, 2005. The event was attended by the sculptor himself, marking his lasting contribution to the artistic and cultural heritage of Murtosa. The Varela Sculptural Ensemble is thus a testament to Dimas Macedo's connection to his land and a point of interest that invites reflection on local identity.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt