This sculpture is one of the seven artworks created by Brazilian artist Hugo França as part of the 2014 – 2016 Vancouver Biennale. It is a long bench with a tunnel at one end created by recycled and locally sourced wood. It weighs 3,000 kg (6,614 lbs). The artist donated this artwork to create a permanent Legacy of Public Art in the community.
My 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, I 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.”
Atelier Hugo França’s principle is to transform trunks, roots and parts of trees that are generally rejected.
The raw wood material is stored at the atelier in Trancoso, Brazil, then chosen by Hugo according to its texture and organic shape for various projects. Hugo’s inspiration is drawn directly from the natural curves and shapes of the wood, following the paths created by nature.
