What are the Cats of Tejada?
The Cats of Tejada, also known as the River Cat and its “brides”, are a collection of iconic sculptures in Cali, Colombia, that have become a cultural and tourist symbol of the city. The River Cat is a monumental bronze sculpture created by the artist Hernando Tejada, depicting a seated cat gazing at the Cali River. It is located on the riverbank in the Normandía sector, along the River Avenue. Surrounding it, in the Cat Park, are the “brides of the Cat”, a series of cat sculptures decorated by various Colombian artists.
History
- Origin of the River Cat (1996): Hernando Tejada donated this sculpture to Cali as a tribute to the city that embraced him. Inaugurated on July 3, 1996, the 3.5-meter-tall, 3.5-ton sculpture was part of a riverbank beautification project. It was cast in bronze in Bogotá using the lost-wax technique and funded by selling 250 small replicas of the cat.
- The Cat’s Brides (2006): In 2006, the Cali Chamber of Commerce, inspired by projects like CowParade, commissioned 15 cat sculptures to honor Tejada, who passed away in 1998. Decorated by artists like Maripaz Jaramillo and Omar Rayo, these “brides” became an open-air gallery. Today, over 30 cat sculptures are scattered across the city.
Significance for Cali
- Cultural and tourist symbol: The cats are an icon of Cali, comparable to other historic landmarks. They embody the joy and creativity of Cali’s people, serving as a meeting point for locals and tourists.
- Emotional connection: The River Cat’s friendly design captivates visitors, especially children. Tejada infused the cats with a sense of freedom and connection to nature.
- Urban transformation: The sculptures have revitalized the Cali River’s riverbank, turning it into a vibrant space for cultural and recreational activities.
Origin of the Idea
- Personal inspiration: Tejada, a lover of felines, saw cats as symbols of the seven lives and freedom. His affection for Cali led him to donate the sculpture, placed strategically between his home and studio.
- Collective project: The idea emerged from discussions between Tejada and local leaders. The “brides” were a later initiative by the Chamber of Commerce, inspired by global public art projects.
Impact on the Urban Landscape
The sculptures have transformed River Avenue and other parts of Cali into an open-air gallery. Each cat, with names like Fogata or Illustrated Cat, reflects Cali’s culture, blending art and community.
