The Torch of Friendship (La Antorcha de la Amistad) is a colossal sculpture by the artist Sebastián. Created as a symbol of cooperation and shared culture between the Mexico, the United States and Canada, it has been embraced by the community in San Antonio, Texas to provide the people and city with a new sense of identity.
Evoking Unity and Friendship
Commissioned by the Asociacion de Empresarios Mexicanos (Association of Mexican Businesspeople), The Torch of Friendship was presented as a gift from the Mexican government to the City of San Antonio in 2002. Although it received mixed reactions from the community at first, it was quickly embraced by residents and became a top attraction for visitors.
A marker identifies what Sebastián was thinking with the piece, as it mentions he thought of creating a symbol of light. That compelled him to come up with the idea of a torch that stands tall to evoke friendship and unity. He envisioned two tall columns rising and joining at the top in a playful dance to form the torch. From all angles, it would reflect the different facets of the relationship between these countries. It was sometimes festive, sometimes complex and sometimes strong, but ultimately harmonic.
These multiple senses are easy to see and experience from multiple sides of the sculpture, as the shape at the top appears different depending on where viewers are standing. Depending on the angle and position the sculpture can be interpreted in wholly different ways, providing audiences with countless opportunities to engage with the piece and space.
Sebastián is known for his monumental sculptures in steel and concrete which have created powerful identities for various communities. Rising 65 feet into the air and painted an unmissable red color, the piece highlights how monuments can provide a sense of identity that can be embraced and interpreted by many different audiences.
A Modern Symbol of San Antonio
Located in the middle of a traffic rotary that would otherwise be plain or empty, the Torch of Friendship has become a modern symbol of San Antonio and one of its best-known public artworks, showcasing the impact a monument can have on the hearts and minds for both residents and visitors.
