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Hugo França Sculpts Old Trees Into Art For Vancouver Biennale

LOOK: Old Trees Into Art
Taís Ribeiro, Atelier Hugo França

Brazilian sculptor Hugo França has arrived in B.C. to participate in the 2014-2016 Vancouver Biennale.

França is converting the trunks and roots of old trees, as well as trees that have washed ashore, into large-scale public art pieces and benches in Squamish and Vancouver.

"Although the artist has exhibited his artwork internationally, this is the first time in his 20-year career that he is creating public sculpture outside Brazil and using a variety of local wood species," Barrie Mowatt, President and Founder of the Vancouver Biennale, said in a press release.

The artist is known for taking old wood and breathing new life into it, turning it into something beautiful and sustainable.

Many of França's pieces will remain in the cities after the Biennale wraps up in 18 months.

He arrived in downtown Squamish on Monday and will be working there until relocating to various Vancouver beaches on April 3. A free reception is taking place on Thursday at the Squamish Academy of Music at 6:00 p.m.

The Vancouver Biennale is a non-profit organization that celebrates public art and brings work from internationally renowned artists to the city.

See more photos of França at work:

Hugo França At Vancouver Biennale

Hugo França At Vancouver Biennale

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