Spectacular statue of Shakira unveiled in her home-town in Colombia

Colombian superstar Shakira has been honoured in her home city of Barranquilla, with a giant 21-foot tall bronze and aluminium statue of herself.

The stunning piece of art portrays her in a bikini top, long hair flowing and hands clasped above her head, while channelling her notorious “Hips Don’t Lie” dance move, from 2006.

The part-Lebanese singer-songwriter’s creation is the work of artist Yino Márques to immortalise her dancing and has been erected at the symbolic Malecón del Río, which has become representative of the city’s cultural offering, and is where locals and tourists alike join together to celebrate festivals, concerts, and other events.

It is fitting therefore that Shakira takes centre stage and visitors will be able to read an accompanying plaque, which highlights her career and charitable work at the base of the six ton landmark.

A series of heart-warming photographs of her proud parents standing in front of the magnificent sculpture holding hands, have been posted on social media from when they attended the grand unveiling, along with her brothers and the city’s mayor.

Proud to share with parents

The 46-year-old Grammy winner was understandably thrilled with the honour and even more so to be able to share the moment with her parents, William Mebarak Chadid and Nidia Ripoll Torrado.

To add to the celebration it was also her mother’s birthday, making it doubly special. She said: “This is too much for my little heart.” Her father has reportedly been struggling with severe health issues and has been in and out of the hospital in recent times and actually underwent a delicate surgery at the age of 92 back in June, but thankfully he is well on the road to recovery.

Honours keep coming

In a dedication alongside the statue it reads: “A heart that composes, hips that do not lie, an unmatched talent, a voice that moves masses and bare feet that march for the good of childhood and humanity.”

This amazing tribute comes just a few months after she was also honoured at the MTC Video Music Awards with the prestigious Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award, becoming the first South American artist to receive the accolade.

Symbolic sculpture

The creator, Mr Márques said he received assistance from the students and District School of Arts graduates in the La Paz neighbourhood of the city.

He made the point that the posture of the statue represents the iconic belly dance, which he said symbolizes “the waves of the sea and the river,” while the raised arms and hands clasped vertically “represent the reach of transcendence.”

Two incredible acts of recognition

Shakira is the number one most streamed female Latin artist in Spotify’s history and this honour is her second amazing show of recognition after recently being granted her very own day.

Shakira Day on 29 September has become a real thing, after a campaign by her Colombian fanbase went viral on social media.

Stunning setting for statue

She will be incredibly proud for the statue to stand at the Gran Malecón del Río in Barranquilla, close to the picturesque Magdalena River, with all of its splendour as a backdrop. The location blends some incredible architecture with remarkable nature, creating a truly vibrant atmosphere.

Carnival centrepiece

The area holds great historical significance for her home city and the addition of this undeniably spectacular statue will take the setting on to another level, and will of course guarantee a flood of visitors for years to come.

This will be especially true around the time of its famous carnival held in February or March, when it is sure to become the centrepiece of activities.