Monuments to the Hero's of Life
June 27, 2025
Concept
The symbolic transformation of an urban space that glorifies colonial power into a space that celebrates life.
#intervention, #urban, #event, #decolonialism, #community, #publicpolicy, #commongood, #ecologicalrestoration, #biodiversity, #natureconnection, #art, #belonging
How it Works
Symbolic replacement of statues of military or imperial figures that occupy squares and public spaces with representations of the true heroes of life: pollinators such as bees and butterflies, wild animals that play a vital role in ecosystems such as owls, snakes, opossums, jaguars, among others.
The idea proposes granting these beings their rightful place, showing reverence for biodiversity, and creating a new urban symbolic vocabulary that values life instead of violence and domination. The new sculptures can be produced from recycled plastics or biocomposite materials, with aesthetics inspired by contemporary public art.
Symbolic reference: the parliament of Bhutan includes statues of native animals representing nature as part of political decisions, evoking wisdom and ecological balance.
Solution Context
Many traditional urban landmarks celebrate domination, war, or colonial power. In times of climate crisis, biodiversity collapse, and social polarization, it is urgent to re-signify public space. Replacing warlike symbols with sculptures that honor natural cycles and life as a common good is an act of symbolic healing and regenerative political imagination. This living idea proposes an emotional and sensory re-education on what truly deserves to be celebrated and remembered.
Taking Action
Identify squares with obsolete or controversial statues.
Create a sculpture of a native animal or ecological agent (bee, tree, bird) using recycled material.
Hold a symbolic event to replace or temporarily overlay the new sculpture on the existing pedestal.
Activate the square with community presence, cultural performances, and educational activities.
Potential Partners
Municipal departments of environment and culture
Companies with strong ESG positioning (e.g., Natura, Unilever, Ben & Jerry’s)
Biodiversity and animal protection NGOs
Public art and contemporary urban art funds
Educational institutions committed to urban regeneration