Sombras de luz, Steel sculpture at Paseo del Muro in Gijón, Spain
Sombras de luz consists of four vertical weathering steel plates standing about 5 meters (16 feet) tall, each pierced with large circular perforations. The regular pattern of openings allows light to pass through while creating distinct shadow patterns on the ground below.
Fernando Alba Álvarez created this work in 1998 as part of Gijón's public art program along the waterfront. The artist fabricated it at Talleres Blanco Infanzón foundry in nearby Oviedo, where the weathering steel was specially treated to develop its characteristic surface over time.
The perforated plates cast changing shadow patterns on the ground throughout the day, inviting visitors to notice how light transforms the space. This interplay between metal and sunlight makes the work feel alive as you walk around it.
The sculpture sits between stairs 18 and 19 along San Lorenzo Beach and is easily reached from the waterfront path. You can visit it anytime since it is located in a completely open public space with no entry restrictions.
Local residents call this work 'Las Chaponas' or 'Les Chapones' in the Asturian language, showing how it became woven into everyday community speech. The informal names developed naturally as neighbors used the sculpture as a landmark when giving directions or meeting.
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