Francisco Javier Díaz (El Nuevo Día) reports that a piece “COQUÍ By NiNo,” depicting the local coquí frog, created by Puerto Rican artist NiNo Alicea, is among the nominees for the 2026 CODAworx TOP 100 Awards. [To vote, go to CODAworx Top 100.]
The piece “COQUÍ By NiNo,” by Puerto Rican artist NiNo Alicea, is among the nominees for the 2026 CODAworx TOP 100 Awards.
The coquí, a small amphibian whose distinctive call fills Puerto Rican evenings, plays a central role in the work of Puerto Rican artist NiNo Alicea, known as El NiNo or Maestro. This emblematic symbol of the island has become a hallmark of his creations, leading him to be recognized as one of the most renowned urban artists in the world.
Proof of this is his inclusion in the 2026 CODAworx TOP 100 Awards, a selection that highlights the 100 best works of public art and integrated design internationally. Among them, “COQUÍ by NiNo” stands out, a piece that captivates with its beauty, visual impact, and artistic quality.
According to a press release, 302 projects from around the world were submitted for evaluation this year. All proposals were considered by the CODAworx jury, an internationally recognized organization that distinguishes initiatives that outstandingly integrate commissioned art into public, architectural, and interior design spaces.
“This recognition belongs to everyone who has been part of COQUÍ’s journey,” the Puerto Rican artist stated in the letter. “Thanks to my incredible Parliament Art Crew, my collaborators, volunteers, sponsors, and everyone who has believed in this dream. Bringing a piece of Puerto Rico to the world has been one of the greatest privileges of my career.” […] For El NiNo, this nomination holds special significance, as it marks the second time one of his works has been recognized among the CODAworx Top 100. The first was “Múcaro’s Rising,” a community mural created in Villas de Loíza, Puerto Rico, recognized for its social and artistic impact.
El NiNo is a Puerto Rican artist whose career is defined by creativity, purpose, and a deep love for human connection. From designing for television and world-renowned artists to creating large-scale public art, his work is a testament to the power of art to transform communities. His acclaimed projects, such as “Múcaro’s Rising” and the interactive installations at Burning Man in Nevada, are invitations to engagement, reflection, and imagination. […]
Those interested in voting may access the CODAworx page at https://www.codaworx.com/codaawards/top-100.
Excerpts translated by Ivette Romero. For full article (in Spanish), see https://www.elnuevodia.com/entretenimiento/cultura/notas/un-coqui-gigantesco-es-nominado-como-la-mejor-obra-urbana-en-el-mundo/xw
[Photos of NiNo Alicea’s “Coquí By NiNo” above: 1) El Nuevo Día; 2) photo by Mark Nixon.]
Francisco Javier Díaz (El Nuevo Día) reports that a piece “COQUÍ By NiNo,” depicting the local coquí frog, created by Puerto Rican artist NiNo Alicea, is among the nominees for the 2026 CODAworx TOP 100 Awards. [To vote, go to CODAworx Top 100.] The piece “COQUÍ By NiNo,” by Puerto Rican artist NiNo Alicea, is