Palenque Vive: A monument to resilience

Introduction

Palenque Vive , the world's largest sculpture dedicated to Palenque women. This large-format work , created by Medellín 3D , not only pays homage to Palenque's cultural heritage but also marks a milestone in the use of 3D printing technology .

A tribute to the Palenquera Woman

Palenque Vive symbolizes the resilience, culture, and joy that define the community of Palenque and Cartagena de Indias. The Palenquera woman was chosen because she represents everything the project seeks to convey: resilience, culture, and connection to her roots. She is a living symbol of Palenque's history of freedom and a testament to the essential role women have played in preserving Afro-Colombian traditions. Her image, always smiling and full of color, encapsulates the joy and resilience of a community that has faced and overcome centuries of challenges. By making her the centerpiece of this monumental work, we pay tribute not only to her figure, but also to the essence of Palenque and its historical legacy. Standing 8 meters tall, this sculpture represents a Palenquera woman in all her splendor: from her vibrant traditional dress to the bowl of fruit she carries on her head, reflecting her daily efforts and indomitable spirit. Every detail of the work seeks to connect emotionally with those who observe it, evoking admiration and respect.

Technological innovation: 3D printing in the service of art

The sculpture is composed of 3,588 pieces of PLA material , printed on FDM printers that are part of the Medellín 3D farm . This project consumed more than 500 kilograms of biodegradable material , underscoring its commitment to sustainability and demonstrating the potential of 3D printing in large-format projects .

The use of FDM printers made it possible to manufacture high-precision, durable parts, optimizing time and resources. This technology represents a significant advance in additive manufacturing, allowing complex designs to be produced with a level of detail never before seen. Furthermore, the circular economy promoted by the use of biodegradable PLA reaffirms the role of 3D printing as a sustainable and efficient solution in the creation of monumental art. As experts in this large-format art , Medellín 3D led an innovative process that not only highlights the technological possibilities but also positions Medellín as a world leader in additive manufacturing.

The sculpture also boosts cultural tourism, attracting a high percentage of visitors interested in learning more about Palenque's history. This contributes to the growth of the local economy and, in particular, to the empowerment of Palenque women, who directly benefit from the tourist flow and associated cultural activities.

Design and construction features.

The five-month construction process included elements of civil, mechanical, and creative engineering. Among its most notable features is the internal spiral staircase, which leads to an upper platform designed as a panoramic viewpoint over the fruit basin. This final finish included fiberglass cladding and a special paint that ensures its durability and highlights its artistic details. The sculpture is located in Cartagena de Indias , in the Parque Nacional de la Marina , a place that enhances its impact as a tourist attraction. It was inaugurated on January 12, 2025 , to great acclaim from locals and tourists alike.

Cultural and social impact

Palenque Vive is more than a sculpture; it's a cultural space that promotes the history and traditions of Palenque. Educational panels accompany the work, explaining aspects such as the role of braids as escape maps and music as a means of cultural resistance. Furthermore, the project allocates a percentage of the proceeds specifically to support children's programs in the Palenque community, strengthening its social impact and ensuring a better future for future generations.

Fusion of tradition and innovation

The sculpture is a clear example of how modern technology can amplify the impact of traditions. Medellín 3D demonstrates that tools like 3D printing not only preserve cultural roots but also project them into the future, adapting them to a contemporary world. This monument celebrates the human capacity for innovation without losing the connection to its origins.

Conclusion

Palenque Vive not only beautifies the landscape near the walled city of Cartagena de Indias, but also leaves a powerful message: resilience, identity, and tradition can be celebrated and preserved through technological innovation. This work invites the world to reflect on the richness of Afro-Colombian traditions and explore new ways of telling stories worth remembering.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where is the Palenque Vive sculpture located? In Cartagena de Indias, near the walled city, it stands out as a cultural and tourist icon.

2. What materials were used in its construction? Biodegradable PLA for the 3D-printed parts, fiberglass, and resin for the coating.

3. What is the purpose of this sculpture? To celebrate Palenque's cultural heritage and promote its social impact through education and support for the community's children.

4. How big is the sculpture? It's 8 meters tall, with a viewing platform at the top.

5. Who participated in its creation? It's a Colores con Causa project , implemented by Medellín 3D , with the collaboration of an interdisciplinary team of engineers and artists.