In the heart of Bordeaux, the colossal sculpture “Sanna” by Catalan artist Jaume Plensa has become a significant cultural landmark. Installed in Place de la Comédie in 2013, this monumental head has been enchanting with its grandeur and thought-provoking presence.
Who is “Sanna”?
“Sanna” is part of a series of seven feminine figures imagined by Plensa following a planned encounter between the artist and the city. Though only two of these figures were cast and exhibited in Bordeaux, they mark a new path of reflection and artistic experimentation in Plensa’s oeuvre. By playing with scale, weight, and the monumentality of the portrait, Plensa transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary.
The giant head of “Sanna” represents not just a physical form, but a deeper meditation on human existence and identity. It prompts viewers to pause and reflect on their own place in the world. The elongated and distorted features of the sculpture encourage a dialogue about perception and reality, inviting the audience to explore the intersections between the two.
Jaume Plensa’s creativity
Jaume Plensa, born on August 23, 1955, in Barcelona, Spain, is a renowned visual artist, sculptor, designer, and engraver. He studied at the Llotja School of Art and Design and the Sant Jordi School of Fine Arts. Since 1980, he has lived and worked in various cities, including Berlin, Brussels, England, France, and the United States. Plensa has received numerous national and international awards, such as the Medaille de Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres in 1993 and the prestigious Velázquez Prize for the Arts in 2013. His works are displayed in public spaces worldwide, from Chicago’s Crown Fountain to London’s “Together”.
“Sanna” in Bordeaux
In Bordeaux, “Sanna” has become more than just a sculpture; it is now an integral part of the city’s life and heritage. Originally intended to stay for a short period, the statue’s presence has been extended multiple times due to its immense popularity. As of the latest agreement, “Sanna” will remain in Place de la Comédie until March 2027, continuing to be a cherished symbol of Bordeaux’s commitment to public art.
Jaume Plensa’s work, including “Sanna,” underscores the power of art to transform public spaces and engage communities. His sculptures serve as a reminder of the shared humanity that connects us all, transcending geographic and cultural boundaries.
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