THE GREAT DOVE / LA GRAN PALOMA, 2024

The dove, a universal symbol of peace and hope, has found new life in one of the areas most affected by violence in San Salvador, the capital of El Salvador. The Zacamil neighborhood, once known as one of the most dangerous places in the city, was the scene of a deep social crisis marked by high levels of crime and unchecked violence. In this context, Andrea Crespi, with the support of the CMS Foundation, decided to create a work of art that would convey a message of rebirth for the residents, choosing the dove as a symbol of new beginnings and offering hope to those living in the area.

Crespi described this experience as one of the most powerful and impactful of his career. “One of the most important lessons I learned from this collaboration,” he explained, “is that teamwork allows you to overcome any limit or challenge.” This installation represents the largest project he has ever undertaken, and its success was made possible thanks to the support and collaboration of the many people who worked alongside him throughout the process. The creation of this artwork, which actively involved the local community, became not only a visual symbol of peace but also a collective experience of hope and renewal.