Palas por pistolas
Initiator(s)
Pedro Reyes
Description
The project involved the citizens in the public destruction of weapons using a steamroller in a military base. Subsequently, the metal was reused to create shovels, which served to plant trees. On the handle of each shovel blade, there is a description that shows how the weapon has now become a peaceful instrument. The project was supported by a local TV station, which invited citizens to give up a weapon, and also, a local chain store which gave a coupon to be used for shopping by anyone who gave up a weapon.
Location
Mexico
Goals
To make the public aware that there is a direct relationship between crime and the number of weapons in circulation.
Beneficial outcomes
During the first campaign, 1527 weapons were collected.
Maintained by
Botanical Garden, Culiacán (2008); Vancouver Art Gallery (2008); San Francisco Art Institute (2008); Maison Rouge, Paris (2008); Lyon Biennial (2009); Marfa, Texas (2010); Denver, Colorado (2010)
Users
Pedro Reyes, local chain store, schools, inhabitants.
Links
http://pedroreyes.net/palasporpistolas.php?szLang=en&Area=work