Ulalu

This abstract, three-dimensional sculpture is made from industrial materials, including steel beams and scrap metal. It was created in 2001 by Mark di Suvero, who is an abstract expressionist sculptor. He is best known for his monumental outdoor steel sculptures. 

Ulalu features multiple steel beams that are painted red and positioned at different angles. The beams intersect with one another and connect with stainless steel rotating forms. This work is an example of what the artist calls “sculptural structuralism.” In this style of art (that he created), there is no subject. The art style focuses on the physical structure itself.

I don’t build small models or draw detailed plans first. I start with a vision, a dream of what I want to do, and see where it goes.

Mark di Suvero

Di Suvero is a New York City-based artist who was born in China and raised in San Francisco. He was part of the abstract expressionist movement in New York City in the 1950s. These abstract expressionist artists focused on the elements of space, line, and color in their work. Space plays a key role in all of di Suvero’s art. In 1986 di Suvero founded Socrates Sculpture Park in New York City, to give artists a place to display their work outdoors. He is an advocate for public art, which is meant to be seen and enjoyed by everyone. 

This 26-foot-tall sculpture is located near the NCMA Welcome Center, on the street-front lawn overlooking Blue Ridge Road. Ulalu is on loan from the artist, along with another large outdoor sculpture he created. His other work, No Fuss, stands at the top of a grassy hill in the Museum Park.