The sculpture was commissioned by the city of Rio de Janeiro to honor the poet who famously wrote 'No meio do caminho' (In the middle of the road).
The glasses on the statue have been replaced or repaired multiple times due to frequent acts of vandalism.
The bronze figure is scaled to the actual physical dimensions of Drummond, standing approximately 1.69 meters tall.
The statue is located near Posto 6, a significant historical reference point on Copacabana Beach.
The artist, Leo Santana, specializes in public sculptures that encourage physical interaction between the artwork and the public.
The bronze statue of Carlos Drummond de Andrade is located on the sidewalk of Copacabana Beach, directly facing the Atlantic Ocean. Sculpted by Leo Santana and unveiled in 2002, it commemorates the centenary of the birth of one of Brazil's most celebrated 20th-century poets. The life-sized statue depicts Drummond sitting on a bench, wearing his trademark glasses and a suit. It is positioned at the exact spot where he frequently walked. The sculpture is a popular interactive landmark designed for tourists to sit beside the figure for photographs. As of mid-2026, the statue remains a permanent, accessible public installation on the beachfront promenade. The work is crafted to blend seamlessly into the pedestrian rhythm of the Avenida Atlântica boardwalk.
Position yourself at the opposite end of the bench to capture the statue and the ocean horizon in a single frame.
Visit during the early morning to avoid long queues of tourists waiting to sit on the bench.
Be aware that the metal surfaces can become very hot under direct midday sun.
Keep a close watch on personal belongings while distracted during photo opportunities.
Do not attempt to climb or stand on the bench, as it is designed only for sitting next to the figure.
