In San Salvador de Jujuy, a remarkable glass-clad sanctuary by Pelli Clarke & Partners now houses six historic marble sculptures by Argentine artist Lola Mora. The Lola Mora Cultural Center, completed under the leadership of Rafael Pelli, after César Pelli’s death of the firm’s revered founder César Pelli, stands as a testament to innovative design and deep cultural ties.
A Seamless Blend of Nature and Architecture
The journey to the center begins with a narrow entrance and a striking bridge over a ravine. This design choice minimizes land disruption and offers visitors a gradual transition from nature to culture. As the path widens, it leads to a spacious lobby that echoes the natural landscape.
Nestled at the Andes’ foot, the building gracefully follows the land’s topography, leaving the dense Yunga forest undisturbed. Its curving form embraces an existing grove, ensuring that architecture complements rather than competes with nature.
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Embodying Artistic Legacy in a Modern Sanctuary
The main exhibition hall features floor-to-ceiling windows, framing exquisite views of the Andes and forest. This thoughtful design allows Lola Mora’s monumental neoclassical figures to be admired from various angles. Axel Zemborain, the design team leader, emphasizes that the sculptures are meant to be discovered gradually, enhancing the visitor experience within this artful refuge.
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The sculptures—Liberty, Progress, Work, Peace, Justice, and The Lions—crafted from Carrara marble, were originally intended for Buenos Aires. Now, after decades exposed to the elements, they stand united indoors for the first time in a century within this unique atrium.
An Eco-Conscious Landmark
Featuring an atelier, library, and restaurant, the center serves as much more than a gallery. A vertical tower with wind turbines and solar panels ensures the building generates its necessary energy, contributing significantly to sustainability. Its sustainable features include rainwater harvesting and erosion control methods, with ongoing efforts to secure LEED Gold certification in this innovative cultural haven.
Designed by Balmori Associates, the landscape—spanning 1.3 hectares—is a harmonious extension of the center’s mission. Local materials connect the structure profoundly to its surroundings.
Cultural Tribute and Personal Legacy
To Rafael Pelli, completing this project holds personal significance, intertwining his architectural legacy with his father’s vision and local heritage. The Lola Mora Cultural Center is a living monument to the past, preserving the artist’s legacy against a majestic natural backdrop in a glass-clad sanctuary.
Source: urdesignmag.com
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Lola Mora Cultural Center located?
The Lola Mora Cultural Center is located in San Salvador de Jujuy, Argentina.
What is housed in the Lola Mora Cultural Center?
The center houses six historic marble sculptures by Argentine artist Lola Mora.
What sustainable features does the center have?
The center includes a vertical tower with wind turbines and solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and erosion control methods to generate its necessary energy and promote sustainability.