Introducing Luna Paiva’s bronze plant sculptures

The humble houseplant gets a majestic makeover

You could say that Buenos Aires based artist Luna Paiva has always been destined for great things. The daughter of aristocratic art merchant and former Parisian model Teresa Anchorena and the late photographer Rolando Paiva, Luna has without doubt inherited her parents’ creative flair and appreciation of beauty.

But far from hiding in their shadow, Paiva has worked hard to carve out a name for herself, developing her own inimitable style as an artist, photographer and sculptor – a style that is ever evolving.

Born in Paris in 1980, Paiva has a degree in Art History and Archeology from La Sorbonne, and also studied film at NYU. So it is not surprising the multitalented artist is adept at working across numerous media, including installation, photography and sculpture.

Botanical bronze

When we think of bronze sculptures, we are most likely to think of figurines or great majestic statues that explore the human form. By contrast Paiva has chosen to focus on an everyday living form that is so often overlooked or taken for granted – the potted plant. In Paiva’s case, the succulents and cacti native to her Argentinian home.

By replicating the shapes of humble houseplants, casting them in bronze and polishing to a high-gloss finish, Paiva shines new light on the beauty of these natural forms. The plants are elevated in stature and immortalised.

Not only do the plants look beautiful, you won’t need to worry about watering them either! But if you’re thinking you quite fancy one for your mantelpiece, you might be out of luck. The sculptures are on display at various galleries around the world. We suggest you treat yourself to the real thing – Paiva’s muse and inspiration, the cactus.

See more of Paiva's works on her website.