Bengaluru: A striking new public art installation titled Bengaluru's Soul by Spanish artist Jaume Plensa was unveiled at the Kempegowda International Airport , adding a global artistic touch to the city's gateway.
The sculpture, installed at Terminal 2, was unveiled on April 25 by Spanish Ambassador Juan Antonio March Pujol in the presence of dignitaries including Karnataka IT Minister Priyank Kharge and Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Executive Chairperson of Biocon.
Crafted from painted steel, Bengaluru's Soul takes the form of human like figures composed of hundreds of interconnected letters. These letters span a wide range of languages, including Kannada, Hindi, Armenian, Japanese, and even mathematical symbols.
The artwork symbolises communication, diversity, and the interconnected nature of cultures an idea that resonates strongly with Bengaluru's identity as a global and cosmopolitan city.
Jaume Plensa, known for his large-scale public installations worldwide, has often used language as a central theme in his works. His creations aim to reflect human connection through the universality of communication.
Speaking about the inspiration behind the sculpture, Plensa described airports as symbolic spaces that connect people across borders.
'An airport is the border. It is the link of one place with the world… my piece is trying to represent that,' he said, highlighting the conceptual depth of the installation.
When asked about the time taken to complete the project, the artist responded humorously, 'Seventy years and nine months,' referring to the culmination of his life experiences in the artwork.
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, whose company's corporate social responsibility arm funded the project, expressed pride in bringing Plensa's work to Bengaluru.
'What Jaume Plensa brings to every city is a wow moment,' she said, adding that the idea to commission the sculpture came after she introduced the artist to India.
She noted that the installation reflects Bengaluru's global outlook and technological prominence, combining artistic imagination with the city's identity as a leading tech hub.
One of the unique aspects of the sculpture is its interactive design. Travellers can walk inside the structure, offering an immersive experience and an opportunity for photographs.
This feature aligns with Plensa's artistic approach, which often encourages public engagement and interaction with his works.
The installation is expected to become a landmark attraction at the airport, enhancing the travel experience while promoting art in everyday spaces.
The unveiling of Bengaluru's Soul underscores the city's efforts to integrate art and culture into public infrastructure. With Terminal 2 already known for its design and aesthetic appeal, the addition of this sculpture further elevates its status as a cultural hub.
Officials believe such initiatives not only beautify public spaces but also create a sense of pride and identity among residents and visitors alike.
Jaume Plensa's Bengaluru's Soul stands as a powerful representation of unity through language and culture. As travellers pass through the airport, the sculpture offers both a visual spectacle and a deeper reflection on human connection, making it a fitting tribute to Bengaluru's global spirit.