A Work of Art for Wildlife
This artwork was born with a purpose: to raise awareness in society about the importance of acting with consciousness, respect, and prudence when crossing a national park. Being responsible locals or tourists not only protects our own lives but also those of countless species inhabiting these territories.
Gonzalo challenges us:
“Every year, the problem worsens: speeding on roads that cross natural areas causes hundreds of accidents, many with irreversible consequences for native wildlife. How is it possible that we don’t respect traffic laws? How is it possible that we live so rushed that we can’t even pause to contemplate nature?”
That’s why he insists that Road Safety Education must be incorporated from early childhood, so that boys and girls learn good practices in kindergarten and later transmit these values within their families. Our wild animals are also endangered by these reckless behaviors, and every action counts.
The origin of the name
The title pays tribute to GUIRÁ OGA, a wildlife refuge in Puerto Iguazú, Misiones, Argentina, whose mission is clear and courageous:
RESCUE – REHABILITATE – RESEARCH.
Here arrive animals who are victims of illegal trafficking, road accidents, poaching, or domestic captivity. Some are voluntarily surrendered after having been raised as pets. Each one carries a story of pain.
The artwork also honors the teams of professionals, park rangers, environmental guides, and institutions who work silently to restore their health and, when possible, their freedom.
Stories that move us
“Every time I go, I learn new stories that leave a mark on me,” says Gonzalo. “I cried when I met Lulú, a female tapir mistreated as a pet and rescued from horrible conditions. Many animals have lost their freedom, but here they find a second chance.”
The work depicts Lulú the tapir, Mel the anteater, and Arana and Espumita, two orphaned puma sisters whose mother died in a road accident. Without learning survival skills from their mother, they cannot hunt on their own.
The refuge also houses birds wounded “in unimaginable ways.”
At the center of the artwork, Gonzalo portrays a king vulture, giving it a detailed eye patch to symbolize mistreatment. A sad scene that leaves a visible scar, reminding us that thousands of animals suffer permanent injuries due to selfish and cruel human actions.
Final message of the artist
With this work, the artist tells us:
“Empathy for animals and nature helps us connect with other living beings and with the ecosystem as a whole. Becoming more aware of their needs teaches us to value the interconnection of everything around us…
Empathy nurtures a sense of responsibility, which is essential for survival.
Wild beauty never repeats itself.
Let’s work on leaving good examples…”
GUIRA OGA: The House of Birds
In Guaraní, GUIRA OGA means “House of the Birds.” Founded in 1997, it was born as an urgent response to protect the fauna of Misiones from the heart of the rainforest.
When visiting a national park, remember:
– Do not feed the animals: it makes them sick and dependent.
– Do not invade their space: observe silently and respect their environment.
– Slow down in natural areas: the lives of many beings depend on your attention.
Learning about and sharing the work of places like GUIRA OGA is a way of protecting life.
When art joins commitment, it can transform consciences.