Huge, Hand-Painted Mexican-Inspired Sculptures Come To Glen Ellyn

GLEN ELLYN, IL — A new public art exhibition brings over-sized, hand-painted sculptures of heads to downtown Glen Ellyn and beyond to pay tribute to traditional Mesoamerican Olmec statues. In all, 33 North American artists have lent their talents to the project, including Eleazar Valencia Valencia, whose vibrant works are displayed in Glen Ellyn.

"Olmec Trails is another home run art exhibit. With it, the exhibit brings cultural awareness, beauty, conversation and engagement," Dawn Smith, Executive Director of the Downtown Glen Ellyn Alliance, told Patch.

Smith added, "Glen Ellyn is committed to public art. Not only does Public Art bring life and charm to the community for our residents, but economic growth to our restaurants and storefronts through tourism."

Statues can be seen at College of Dupage, Mayslake Peabody Estate and throughout DuPage County Forest Preserves.

In a statement, Eleazar Valencia Valencia said his work "The Wonders of Tabasco" is "a piece that represents WATER. Without water, there is no life. It also showcases the cultural heritage left by our ancestors: dances, music, and gastronomy. Additionally, it portrays the biodiversity of plants and animals found in the vast swamps and tropical jungles, many of which are categorized as endangered."

The Alliance of Downtown Glen Ellyn worked with village officials and the Glen Ellyn Park District to bring part of Olmec Trails to Glen Ellyn.

Smith said, "Glen Ellyn is excited to be a part of this DuPage County art exhibit working with both the DuPage Convention and Visitors Bureau, as well as the McAninch Arts center, who both have a proven track record of publicizing amazing events. It was as easy decision in wanting to collaborate in this project."