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Five Years of Bruno Catalano’s Van Gogh at UPTEN: Calgary’s Iconic “Missing Pieces” Sculpture

This September marks the 5th anniversary of Bruno Catalano’s Van Gogh Monumental sculpture at UPTEN Apartments in Calgary.

Created by internationally renowned French sculptor Bruno Catalano, the piece belongs to his celebrated Les Voyageurs series. Known for their striking “missing pieces,” these sculptures symbolize the fragments of ourselves that we leave behind when we travel, migrate, or begin anew.


Who Is Bruno Catalano?

Bruno Catalano (sometimes searched as Catalano Bruno) is a world-famous sculptor recognized for his unique style of fragmented bronze figures. His work has been exhibited across Paris, Venice, New York, and beyond. Each piece challenges viewers to think about absence, memory, and the invisible parts of identity.

Among his most notable works are:

  • Sculpture de Bruno Catalano: Les Voyageurs — the larger collection that includes our Van Gogh.

  • Figures placed in public spaces around the world, from Marseille to Singapore.

  • Smaller editions available for collectors (Bruno Catalano for sale continues to be a sought-after search worldwide).

Bruno Catalano Van Gogh Monumental sculpture in Calgary outside UPTEN Apartments, part of Les Voyageurs series with missing pieces design.
Bruno Catalano Van Gogh Monumental sculpture in Calgary outside UPTEN Apartments, part of Les Voyageurs series with missing pieces design

Van Gogh Monumental: A Calgary Landmark

The Calgary sculpture depicts Vincent Van Gogh, suitcase in hand and canvas on his back, journeying forward despite the “missing” sections of his body. This figure embodies both the hardship and resilience of migration — and also honors Van Gogh’s own restless spirit as an artist.

For Calgarians, the piece resonates deeply. Ours is a city built by people who arrived from elsewhere, carrying traditions, creativity, and dreams. The Van Gogh Monumental by Bruno Catalano is more than public art; it’s a reminder that movement and change shape who we are.


Five Years at UPTEN

Since its installation outside @liveupten in Calgary’s Beltline, the sculpture has become a must-see photo stop for residents, visitors, and art lovers. For five years, it has quietly sparked reflection among those who pause beside it:

  • What journeys brought you here?

  • What have you carried with you?

  • What fragments of the past still shape your present?


Why It Matters Today

As Calgary continues to grow through migration, culture, and innovation, the Les Voyageurs sculpture by Bruno Catalano feels more relevant than ever. It bridges global art with local identity, reminding us that Calgary is a city of travelers, dreamers, and builders.

Next time you pass by UPTEN Apartments, take a moment to stand with Van Gogh. Reflect on your own path — and how every journey, no matter how fragmented, creates the whole story of who we are.


Learn More

Want to explore more about the artist and his works?

  • Read our feature page on Bruno Catalano at UPTEN.

  • Discover the global reach of Les Voyageurs.

  • Visit UPTEN in Calgary’s Beltline to experience the sculpture in person.



 
 
 
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