Public Furniture | Urban Trees – Little Smoke Bluffs Park
Hugo França, Brazil
Description
Title: Public Furniture | Urban Trees – Little Smoke Bluffs Park
Artist: Hugo França (b. 1954, Brazil)
Medium: Wood, locally sourced and salvaged
Dimensions (H x W x D): 229 x 249 x 394 cm (90 x 98 x 155 in)
Weight: Unknown
Location: Little Smoke Bluffs Park (2000 Smoke Bluff Road) in Squamish, British Columbia
Although the artist has exhibited his work internationally, this is the first time in his twenty-year career that he has created public sculpture outside Brazil and used a variety of local wood species, which makes this a truly unique Biennale project and experience for the Squamish community.
França’s sculpting process respects the natural features of the wood, promoting minimum waste. Considering the Squamish community’s relationship with the outdoors and nature along with the region’s logging-industry roots, França created Public Furniture | Urban Trees – Squamish as a response to the balance between industry and nature, showcasing sustainable reuse that invites integration, creativity, and renewal.
This artwork is one of seven artworks created by França in Squamish. This project would not have been possible without the overwhelming support of the local community and sponsors. All the wood used was recycled and locally sourced from the Squamish area. The 2014 – 2016 Vancouver Biennale and Hugo França are pleased to donate this artwork to the Little Smoke Bluffs Park to create a permanent Legacy of Public Art in the community.
