La Madre Naturaleza

San Gregorio de Polanco, a picturesque town known for offering one of the best freshwater spas in Uruguay and the southern region of South America, is a vibrant destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty with cultural expression. Surrounded by rich fauna and flora typical of the northern region of the country, the town attracts both national and international tourists with its unique charm. Adding to its allure is the Open Air Museum of Murals, where visitors can stroll through streets adorned with an impressive array of murals created by local, national, and international artists on houses, markets, institutions, and walls.

In february 2024 a new artistic gem was unveiled on the emblematic OSE water tank. This striking mural, created by renowned graffiti artist and plastic painter José Gallino, has become an instant symbol of pride for the community. The work, inspired by Mother Nature and a Creole woman, pays homage to the region’s natural beauty, featuring flowers and fauna native to Uruguay. Set against an underwater backdrop, the mural’s centerpiece is a life-sized, hyper-realistic portrait of a woman whose serene gaze embodies a sense of guardianship and connection to the land.

“This work reflects the role of women in society, as a generator of life,” Gallino explained. “It is under water, full of flowers and fauna of our territory. Each viewer can derive their message to emphasize the importance of caring for the environment and our waters. I hope you enjoy it.”

Gallino’s process combined surrealism, portraiture, and a deep respect for the local environment. Using liquid paints and low-pressure matte sprays, he created the mural over several days. The mural marks a milestone in his career, as it is the first time he has crafted a large-scale iconic image of a woman with such precision and care.

The unveiling was a community celebration attended by notable figures, including the mayor of Tacuarembó, Wilson Ezquerra, the interim mayor Lourdes Lacuesta, and other departmental authorities. Liliana Claridget of Expresa Arte expressed gratitude for the warm support of the town’s residents, who provided not only encouragement but simple gestures of kindness, such as sharing a mate or offering refreshments. She described the mural as a depiction of a woman “guarding the treasure of the little streets and colorful frames of the town.”

This mural on the OSE water tower not only enhances San Gregorio de Polanco's reputation as a hub for artistic expression but also serves as a powerful symbol of the town’s commitment to preserving its environment and cultural identity. Visitors are sure to leave inspired by this breathtaking work of art, which embodies the soul of Polanco and its people.