Monumental Sculptures Installed in Ecatepec for World Cup; One is Largest in Latin America

Ecatepec, Mexico, is embracing the Football World Cup by showcasing nine monumental papier-mâché sculptures along the Albarradón. These vibrant artworks aim to enhance the festive atmosphere surrounding the global sporting event.

The centerpiece of the exhibition is “Eca-Ajolota,” a striking nine-meter-tall axolotl sculpture. Its creators describe it as the largest of its kind in Latin America. This piece, along with 25 fiberglass sculptures displayed on the municipal esplanade, forms the “Ecatepec Pal Mundo” exhibition. The collection thoughtfully merges elements of Mesoamerican heritage with the spirit of the World Cup.

The “Eca-Ajolota” was crafted using the cartoplas technique, a method combining traditional papier-mâché with artistic intervention to create a water-resistant and durable finish. The Medusa collective, comprising eight artists and led by Oaxaca-based artist Edu-Arte Mendoza, completed the sculpture in a month and a half. The figure is adorned with traditional Otomi-inspired embroidery, depicting hummingbirds and referencing Huitzilopochtli, alongside traditional attire.

Mendoza expressed his hope that these figures, including representations of deities like Ehécatl, will encourage Ecatepec residents to connect with Mexico's rich cultural traditions. He noted that this is the third World Cup hosted by the country, presenting a valuable opportunity to promote local culture.

Other notable sculptures include “Chac-Gool,” a seven-meter piece depicting a pre-Hispanic Chac Mool performing a bicycle kick, and “Juego de pelota,” which features a player in the ancient Mesoamerican ballgame stance. The exhibition also includes works like “Guerrero del Juego,” “Atlante de Tula,” “Ehécatl y la Pasión por el Fútbol,” “Axolotol-Tláloc,” “Pepito Pambolero,” and “La Diosa Futbolera,” a tribute to female footballers.