A large section of the felled Sycamore Gap tree will soon find a new home.
Artist Charlie Whinney of art collective Creative Communities CIC will install the tree section in The Sill, as part of a two-phase initiative led by Northumberland National Park in partnership with the National Trust, the Hadrian’s Wall Partnership, and Historic England.
The first phase involves an anniversary exhibition and a public consultation at the Hexham venue.
Community feedback will inform the second phase of the project, resulting in a permanent location for the grand tree trunk at Northumberland National Park Authority’s permanent display at The Sill.
The initiative is funded by the Community Foundation Tyne & Wear and Northumberland, providing £50,000 for both phases from funds including the North East Roots Fund, plus a dedicated contribution from Ventient Energy.
Tony Gates, chief executive of Northumberland National Park Authority, said: "The appointment of Charlie Whinney as artist to take on this unique creative commission is extremely exciting.
"Not only have they a proven track record in creating and delivering large scale projects, but their ethos aligns to Northumberland National Park’s, in that they are truly committed to securing a legacy for both people and nature through the connection to Sycamore Gap.
"I am fascinated to see how they interpret and incorporate people’s views and heartfelt emotions into the installation."
Mr Whinney’s approach to the project involves documenting people's experiences, feelings, and promises regarding the tree, potentially unveiling profound links between the natural world of the tree and human society.
His collaborators include project manager and environmental education provider Nick Greenall, and climate activist and poet Matt Sowerby.
Mr Whinney said: “I’m feeling humbled to be given such a big responsibility, and I’ll do my very best to honour the amazing context around this wonderful tree.
"Our project involves both the creation of beautiful art as well as being a form of practical environmental activism."
The exhibition is set to open to the public at The Sill on Saturday, September 28, one year after the tree's felling was discovered.
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