Medellín is currently showcasing a breathtaking floral tapestry featuring an 11-metre seahorse, crafted from 180,000 flowers in a colourful display aimed at promoting marine conservation. This striking installation, unveiled as part of the city’s lead-up to the Feria de Flores, covers 1,000 square metres of the main plaza at the Santafé shopping mall.
The enormous artwork constructed using 25,000 plants including marigolds and petunias, along with a metal frame, portrays a marine ecosystem complete with elements that simulate underwater flora and fauna. A team of 100 people worked meticulously to create this visual marvel, which stands as both an artistic achievement and a conservation message.
María Fernanda Bertel, General Manager of Santafé Mall, told EFE that the theme of this year’s tapestry focuses on the vital role of water and marine life. “Life also flourishes in the sea,” she remarked, highlighting the tapestry’s role in raising environmental awareness among the expected 2.5 million visitors. The display, described as a “unique visual experience,” will be on view until September 1.
The seahorse, a central feature of the installation, is suspended 13 metres above the ground, giving it an ethereal floating appearance. The display also includes other marine-themed elements, such as a seven-metre Millepora Alcicornis, a 3.7-metre coral, a 4.9-metre high Pavona, and a 3.7-metre high Alveopora, all meticulously designed to reflect marine biodiversity.
The Feria de Flores, running from August 2 to 11, is expected to attract around 26,000 international tourists and more than 22,000 national visitors. The event not only celebrates Medellín’s floral tradition but also aims to highlight the environmental impact of human activities and the importance of water conservation.
In addition to its environmental message, the tapestry serves a charitable cause. The mall is raising funds for the “Full Tummies” programme by the Fundación de Atención a la Niñez, which combats child malnutrition. Visitors can contribute from the outset through a pre-sale that offers pieces of the tapestry or postcards featuring artwork created by children from the foundation.
Bertel emphasised the event’s commitment to sustainability. The mall plans to integrate recycling, composting, and the sale or donation of plants, alongside reusing decorative elements to minimise environmental impact. This year’s exhibition also connects with the Colombiamoda fair circuit to bolster the narrative of sustainability and circular economy.
For further information on the tapestry and its associated activities, visit the Santafé Mall’s official website.