Ivan Argote

The Johnson Atelier worked closely with Iván Argote from the early conceptual stages through final assembly and finishing of Dinosaur, a sculpture that challenges traditional ideas of public monuments. Collaborating with the artist, the Atelier’s team helped refine the bird’s proportions, pose, and presence to align with Argote’s vision. The sculpture’s aluminum structure was cast in Mexico and transported by truck to the Atelier’s facility. Once onsite, our team expertly patched and finished the surface, assembled the massive form, and built the concrete plinth it rests on. The painting team then meticulously brought the sculpture to life, layering specialized color-shifting paint to recreate the iridescent sheen and feathered texture of a real pigeon. Throughout the process, Argote remained deeply involved, working alongside the Atelier’s artisans to perfect key details of the form, surface, and finish. Each stage of the sculpture’s evolution was carefully documented, showcasing the high level of craftsmanship and collaboration that brought Dinosaur to life. The result is a bold, thought-provoking monument that invites viewers to reconsider the familiar and reflect on how public narratives are constructed.