The sculpture was a gift to the city of Cali from the artist Hernando Tejada.
The companion cats were added starting in 2006 to celebrate the sculpture's 10th anniversary.
The primary bronze cat is cast in a stylized, modern geometric form rather than a realistic feline aesthetic.
The project has evolved into a 'cat park' museum featuring over a dozen distinct female cat sculptures with diverse artistic themes.
The riverbank location was specifically chosen to help revitalize the area surrounding the Cali River.
El Gato del Río is a 3.5-meter-tall bronze sculpture created by Colombian artist Hernando Tejada, permanently installed on the banks of the Cali River. Unveiled in 1996, the sculpture weighs three tons and serves as the centerpiece of an open-air park featuring smaller companion cat sculptures. These subsequent additions, known as 'Las Novias del Gato' (The Cat's Girlfriends), were designed by various local artists to expand the art walk. The park functions as a public promenade stretching along the riverbank in the Normandia neighborhood. The area is a focal point for local culture, often used for public art exhibitions and community gatherings.
Directly in front of the main bronze cat with the Cali River and the trees of the park in the background.
Walk the entire length of the riverbank to see all of the 'Las Novias del Gato' sculptures.
Visit during daylight hours to safely photograph the varied colors and patterns of the companion sculptures.
Combine this visit with a walk through the nearby El Peñón neighborhood for dining options.
Do not visit the riverbank area late at night, as security can be inconsistent in urban public spaces after dark.
