Alebrijes: Creatures of a Dream World at Cantigny Park Crafts a Magical Outdoor Exhibit of Vibrant Creatures

 

Alebrijes: Creatures of a Dream World at Cantigny Park in Wheaton, Illinois adds an incredibly magical experience to a summer adventure to the park. At the exhibition's inception, forty-eight remarkable large-scale sculptures depicting fanciful animals were spread throughout the campus sparking a wonderous experience. Incredibly, artists are still creating more sculptures to add to the experience!

Alebrije sculptures bring a special whimsy and vibrance to Cantigny Park.

Alebrije refers to an imaginary creature in Mexican folklore that is actually a blend of elements from several animals. Vibrant colors and patterns featured on the sculptures wrap visitors up in a true sense of awe and delight. If you are looking for an uplifting experience, this is it!

This vibrant alebrije looks like a rooster-snake mix.

Sculptures on display at Cantigny were crafted by six talented artists from Mexico City recruited by the Mexican Cultural Center DuPage. During the exhibit's opening, artists even crafted a creature on-site and continue to do so today! Of the original 48 sculptures, 18 are large scale and 30 are a bit smaller. But, each is stunning and beckons amazement.

A flamingo-like alebrije peers at us over the bushes.

When I say that the stunning sculptures are threaded throughout the preserve, I mean it! We explored the entire campus looking for these interesting creatures. We had fun trying to guess the correct animal blend. 

Parking is $5 per car on weekdays and $10 per car on weekends making this an affordable adventure. Parking is free on the first Wednesday of the month.

One of my favorites! I love the vibrant patterns of this alebrije!

Alebrijes started out as a dream -- a fever dream to be exact! In 1936, Mexican artist Pedro Linares took ill and dreamt of entrancing blends of creatures. After Linares recovered, he began crafting sculptures of the fanciful creatures. An art form was born!

A vibrant two-headed dog-like creature made us smile while exploring 
Alebrijes: Creatures of a Dream World 

Events throughout the summer connect to the exhibit. See Cantigny's calendar for information about art walks that will focus on the artists and methods used to create the sculptures. The First Division Museum currently features an exhibit on the Mexican American military experience. Scavenger hunts are available as well. Whether you make it for an event or just come to wander through the magical world of alebrijes, you will be dazzled! 

For more on Alebrijes, visit Gallery 200  through August 27 for Maquetas y Bocetos which gives a more behind-the-scenes look at the history and art form that bring alebrijes to life. The exhibition is put together by the Mexican Cultural Center DuPage. I hope to check out this exhibition as well!