Dubian Monsalve’s sculpture, “Pregnant Mountain,” created in 2012 near Santo Domingo in Colombia, initially garnered limited attention despite its remarkable creation. As a college student, Monsalve utilized basic farming tools to sculpt the piece in a mere 15 days, yet he didn’t actively promote or photograph the finished artwork.

The sculpture’s journey to international recognition commenced in 2015 when an anonymous photo surfaced online, catapulting “Pregnant Mountain” into the limelight. It swiftly amassed over 2 million likes on Facebook, transforming the artwork into a notable tourist attraction in Santo Domingo. Recent social media shares, including a notable post on The Australian Catholics page, have revitalized interest in Monsalve’s creation, receiving significant online acclaim.

In an interview with ACI Prensa, Monsalve revealed the deeper meaning behind the sculpture. He explained that it symbolizes a tribute to life and serves as a commemoration of the local community’s resilience amidst the social and political upheavals during the 1990s, particularly concerning drug trafficking. Monsalve intended the sculpture to symbolize the community’s rebirth, showcasing their determination to rebuild their lives despite challenging circumstances.

Moreover, Monsalve emphasized the significance of his Christian beliefs in shaping the sculpture’s meaning. He underscored the sanctity of life, stating that “Pregnant Mountain” represents the sacredness of life from conception to its natural conclusion. For him, the sculpture stands as a testament to the value of life and honors the role of women in bringing forth new life.

In essence, “Pregnant Mountain” embodies Monsalve’s tribute to life, resilience, and the community’s renewal while reflecting his profound Christian convictions centered around the sanctity of life.