Felipe Escudero’s CROMA is a monumental land art installation located in the historic heart of Quito, Ecuador. Covering an impressive 10,000 square meters, this vibrant work features a striking 1.6-kilometer-long orange path that elegantly links two of the city’s most iconic landmarks: the Basílica del Voto Nacional and the Palacio de Cristal Itchimbia. This installation breathes new life into Quito’s once-overlooked UNESCO World Heritage site, serving as a bold intervention that seamlessly blends art, architecture, and urban renewal.
The choice of orange is particularly significant, symbolizing joy, creativity, and vitality. This vivid hue slices through the urban landscape, fostering a sense of belonging and community pride among residents and visitors alike. Crafted with over 5,000 liters of paint, the monochromatic stripe not only invites public interaction but also enhances the perception of safety in the area, making it a welcoming space for all.
CROMA plays a crucial role in connecting various neighborhoods within the city, reactivating the historic center by encouraging movement and exploration. The path weaves together Quito’s diverse districts and iconic buildings, offering a sensory experience that allows visitors to engage with the city’s rich cultural heritage from fresh perspectives. This artistic endeavor transforms the urban environment into a dynamic space for discovery.
The connection between art and architecture in CROMA strengthens the social fabric of the area, turning the public realm into a venue for reflection and collective enjoyment. This project, organized in collaboration with the Municipality of Quito, Obbbio, and the paint brand Pintulac, exemplifies how art can serve as a catalyst for urban transformation and revitalization.
Through CROMA, Felipe Escudero aims to rejuvenate previously neglected spaces, showcasing the potential of creative interventions to reshape urban dynamics. By reconnecting the community and illuminating the cityscape with its vibrant orange tones, CROMA cultivates an atmosphere of warmth and inclusivity, inviting everyone to partake in the beauty and history of Quito.