Giant wooden sculpture going up at Ogden’s Dumke Arts Plaza
OGDEN, Utah — A French sculpture artist is making his U.S. debut this Thursday at the Dumke Arts Plaza in downtown Ogden.
Known for working with wood and upcycled materials, artist elparo’s latest piece, “La Vrille,” is a wooden construction that spirals through both levels of the plaza. Elparo has created large-scale public art installations in 15 different countries, including France, Japan, New Zealand, and South Africa. 
He’s been working on “La Vrille” since mid-October, with Weber State University students, employees, and community members lending a hand to bring the piece to life.
“Public art like elparo's brings something completely fresh and unique to our community and fosters new connections,” said Andrea Ferber, gallery and exhibitions director for WSU’s Mary Elizabeth Dee Shaw Gallery. “I am an introvert, but it's very easy to engage with passersby when they are excited about new art in their neighborhood.”
The Shaw Gallery curates rotating outdoor exhibitions at the Dumke Arts Plaza, which features community-led arts programming, like small concerts and dance performances, in addition to major art installations.
The sculpture will be on display until April 9, 2027. There will be an opening reception with the artist on Thursday, Oct. 29 at 6 p.m. at the plaza, 445 25th St. in Ogden.
Jessica Kokesh, Marketing & Communications
801-626-7316, jessicakokesh@weber.edu- Contact:
Rachel Badali, Public Relations Director
801-626-7362, rachelbadali@weber.edu