The rose sculpture representing Mexico in Rosefest Guadalajara 2011 – beautifully decorated by 12 Huichol artisans from Zitacua, Nayarit – has been installed at the junction between Hidalgo and Chapultepec ahead of the Pan American Games.
The brightly colored, beaded, fiber-glass rose features traditional Huichol patterns, and sits beside the giant shuttlecock and basketball sculptures that have also been installed along Avenida Chapultepec.
The purpose of Rosefest, a city-wide public art exhibition, is to promote the Pan American Games which begin October 14. Each of the 42 roses features the national colors and motifs of one of the 42 nations taking part in the games.
Each rose has been sponosred by a Guadalajara-based business.
After the games the two-meter high fiberglass roses currently being installed in public places across the city will be auctioned off, with the proceeds donated to charity.
The project is similar to the Cow Parade festival that has been held in many cities worldwide, including Guadalajara.