In a poignant response to the infamous felling of the Sycamore Gap tree, the National Trust has launched a public ballot that invites citizens to vote on which of six talented artists will transform the timber from the beloved landmark into a lasting piece of art. This initiative not only seeks to honour the tree’s legacy but also aims to weave its story into the fabric of future generations. Voting is open until 28 March, giving the public a vital role in determining how the memory of this iconic tree will be preserved.
The Story Behind the Felling
The Sycamore Gap tree, a symbol of natural beauty and a cherished feature of Hadrian’s Wall, was illegally cut down in September 2023 by Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers from Cumbria. Their reckless act during Storm Agnes sparked outrage across the nation, prompting an outpouring of grief from those who had formed cherished memories beneath its branches. For over a century, the tree stood as a testament to resilience and beauty, becoming part of the emotional landscape for many.
Annie Reilly, the National Trust’s public engagement director and chair of the judging panel, remarked on the profound connection people felt with the tree. “Over the past two years, we’ve heard extraordinary stories about what the Sycamore Gap tree meant to people – from moments of celebration and milestones to quiet memories of loss, connection and reflection. It became more than a tree; it became part of the emotional landscape of the nation.”
A Creative Call to Action
In the wake of the public’s sorrow, the National Trust issued a call for proposals to artists and agencies, inviting them to reimagine the tree’s legacy using half of the wood from the felled trunk. The six shortlisted artists have each crafted unique visions that reflect their interpretation of the tree’s significance. This participatory approach not only empowers the public to engage with the artwork but also respects the diverse stories that the Sycamore Gap tree encapsulated.
The finalists include a range of creative talents: Alex Hartley and Tom James from Devon and London, Helix Arts in collaboration with George King Architects from the North East, Hampshire’s Mary Dalton, the London-based non zero one, Sam Williams Studio from Sussex, and Bristol’s Trigger. Their proposals encompass a variety of concepts, from sculptural installations to community-driven projects that aim to capture the tree’s spirit and history.
The Voting Process
Public participation is integral to this initiative, with the voting mechanism allowing individuals to contribute to 30% of the final decision, while a panel of art and nature experts will weigh in with the remaining 70%. This blended approach to decision-making not only celebrates the artistry involved but also acknowledges the emotional ties that many hold towards the Sycamore Gap tree.
Participants can cast up to three votes via the National Trust’s website, reflecting their personal connections to the tree and what it represented in their lives. The anticipation surrounding the winning proposal is palpable, with the final artwork expected to be unveiled by 2028.
Continuing the Legacy
As part of a broader engagement programme responding to the tree’s loss, the National Trust has also installed a section of the trunk at the gateway to Northumberland National Park. This installation serves as a physical reminder of the tree that once stood proudly in the landscape. Additionally, prints of the tree’s heartwood by printmaker Shona Branigan are on display at Seaton Delaval Hall, further immortalising its memory. Community initiatives, including the distribution of saplings grown from seeds salvaged from the original tree, have also been launched, allowing local communities to plant their own pieces of history.
Why it Matters
The initiative to transform the timber from the Sycamore Gap tree into art serves as a powerful reminder of the need to protect our natural heritage. It highlights the collective grief that accompanies the loss of such landmarks and the importance of engaging communities in the narrative of conservation. By allowing the public to vote on the artistic direction, the National Trust not only honours the tree’s legacy but also fosters a deeper connection between people and nature, ensuring that the story of the Sycamore Gap tree continues to resonate for generations to come.
