The public is invited to participate in selecting the artist who will create an artwork from the Sycamore Gap tree, which was felled illegally. This unique opportunity involves voting on one of six shortlisted artists, each of whom submitted proposals to transform the tree’s wood into a significant artistic piece.
Commission for Sycamore Gap Tree Artwork
The National Trust has initiated this project to repurpose half of the timber from the tree. They sought submissions from artists, organizations, and creative agencies, emphasizing the piece’s cultural importance. The selected proposals reflect a diverse group of talents from various regions across England.
Shortlisted Artists
- Northeast England
- Devon
- London (two artists)
- Hampshire
- Sussex
- Bristol
Background on the Sycamore Gap Tree
The Sycamore Gap tree was a well-known landmark situated in a dip near Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland. This iconic tree stood tall since the 1800s before it was illegally cut down in September 2023 by two individuals from Cumbria. The commission aims to honor its legacy while engaging the community in the creative process.
Voting provides the public with a chance to influence the artwork that will emerge from this tragic event. This initiative seeks not only to remember the tree but also to foster a connection with art and nature in the community.
