Bears of Pennies
“Urea Mater” aka Mama Penny Bear. This artwork stands 12 1/2 feet tall, 5,760 pounds and was made with 200,000 Pennie’s. I saw this when it was on display in San Jose, California a few years ago. I have mixed feelings about it. I love the artwork, but then on the other hand, could it be things like this and all the people through the years who have been hoarding pennies that have caused the penny shortage?
During my visit to San Jose, I had the chance to see the impressive "Urea Mater" sculpture, also known as Mama Penny Bear. It’s incredible how public artworks can transform everyday objects into something monumental and meaningful. The fact that this bear is made from 200,000 pennies and weighs nearly 6,000 pounds amazed me. It’s not just a display of creativity but also a reminder of the value and history of the humble penny. Reflecting on the artwork, I couldn’t help but wonder about its effect on the availability of pennies. Pennies have been slowly disappearing from circulation in many places, partially due to collectors and artworks hoarding large amounts. This sculpture illustrates perfectly how art intersects with currency in unique ways. I learned that some believe such hoarding could contribute to the penny shortage seen in recent years. The experience also raised awareness about public art’s role in communities. Art like this sparks conversations — not just about aesthetics but economic and cultural topics. The bear’s size and weight make it a striking presence in any public space, and knowing it’s crafted from common pennies adds layers of meaning. If you ever visit San Jose, taking time to see Mama Penny Bear offers more than just photo opportunities; it’s a chance to think about everyday objects in new light. This encounter made me appreciate how art can make us question and learn about aspects of life we may overlook, from currency to conservation and creativity.
