This sculpture is one of the seven artworks created by Brazilian artist Hugo França. All the wood used was recycled and locally sourced from the Squamish area, with the one at Rose Park weighing in at a stunning 3,000 kg (6,614 lbs).
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.
The 2014 – 2016 Vancouver Biennale and Hugo França donated this artwork to the future Forestry Museum to create a permanent Legacy of Public Art in the community.
A Little History
At the other end of the park to the artwork you’ll find “Lily’s Garden”. This beautifully tended garden was named after a local woman called Lily Carson, whose family originally owned the land in the 1950’s, donating it in her memory when the municipality created Rose Park in the 90’s. Her flowers often won prizes at the local fairs and her children remember her being in her element when she was amongst her plants. Every spring the Carson family come from all over the world to tend the garden and remember Lily. There is a lovely story in the Squamish Reporter if you’d like to read more..
To find out more about Hugo França, visit the Vancouver Biennale website here.
