Urbici Soler
El Paso, El Paso County, Texas
Marker Inscription
A master sculptor, Urbici Soler apprenticed under artists in his native Spain before studying and working in Germany, southern Europe, South America, and Mexico. In 1937 he came to El Paso to begin work on the statue "Cristo Rey," which stands on a mountain peak overlooking the city. Soler later taught at the Texas College of Mines (now the University of Texas at El Paso) and died in his home at the base of the mountain upon which "Cristo Rey" was placed. Recorded - 1983
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Trained in his native Spain and seasoned by work across Germany, southern Europe, South America, and Mexico, the master sculptor Urbici Soler came to El Paso in 1937 to carve "Cristo Rey," the towering figure that crowns a mountain peak above the city. He went on to teach at the Texas College of Mines, forerunner of the University of Texas at El Paso. He died in his home at the foot of the very mountain his masterwork commands.
Why it matters
Soler's story reflects the international artistic talent drawn to the American Southwest, leaving a landmark that still defines El Paso's skyline.
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Related people
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Themes & tags
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