Citizens are invited to celebrate art and Mexican culture with the unveiling of Roseta

On Thursday, Sept. 24, from noon to 2 p.m., The City of Calgary and the Consulate of Mexico invite Calgarians to attend the unveiling ceremony of Roseta – a sculpture being installed at the Devonian Gardens (400, 317 7 Ave. S.W.). The piece was donated to The City of Calgary public art collection by renowned Mexican sculptor, Sebastián, with generous support from The Government of Mexico, Consulate of Mexico and Q’Max Solutions Inc.                                      

Calgarians who attend the unveiling celebration will hear remarks from Mayor Nenshi and Consul of Mexico Cecilia Villanueva.

Fabricated in 2004, Roseta's finish is entirely original, and the piece is one of only a handful of Sebastián sculptures in existence with its distinctive purple finish.

“We’re honoured to accept this generous donation into The City’s art collection and to have it stand in the Devonian Gardens for all to see and appreciate. It is another symbol of Calgary’s strong ties with Mexico,” said Mayor Naheed Nenshi. “Also, I’m a big fan of the colour.”

“Roseta’s presence in Calgary is a great example of what can be accomplished with team effort, governmental support, corporate sponsorship and the artistic contribution from one of Mexico’s most talented sculptors,” commented Consul of Mexico Cecilia Villanueva. “I like his expressive artwork. Sebastian is one of my favourite artists.” 

The 14-feet tall Roseta was included in a travelling exhibit of 15 Sebastián sculptures that appeared in three North American cities before eventually arriving in Calgary in 2011. From that point, conservation work was done to repair areas damaged from wear-and-tear in order to prepare the piece for indoor display.

Considered Mexico’s most distinguished living sculptor, Sebastián is known for his geometric monumental sculptures, usually constructed in steel or concrete. His works have been installed in cities across the world including Buenos Aires, Havana, Denver, San Antonia, Reykavik and Osaka.

For more information on Calgary public art collection visit www.calgary.ca/publicart.