The National Trust has launched a public vote inviting citizens to help determine how to best honour the Sycamore Gap tree, which was brutally felled in 2023. Timber from this beloved landmark will be transformed into a lasting artwork, and the public will have a say in selecting one of six shortlisted artists to realise this vision. The voting period is open until 28 March, giving everyone a chance to participate in shaping the tree’s enduring legacy.
A Fallen Monument
The destruction of the Sycamore Gap tree, situated along Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland, sent shockwaves throughout the UK. In September 2023, Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers, both from Cumbria, committed this act of vandalism during Storm Agnes, sparking widespread outrage. The tree, believed to have been planted in the late 1880s, had become an integral part of the nation’s emotional landscape, symbolising connection and reflection for many.
Annie Reilly, the National Trust’s public engagement director and chair of the judging panel, reflected on the profound impact the tree had on people’s lives. “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,” she stated. The public vote aims to allow individuals to share their own connections to the tree and contribute to its ongoing narrative.
Six Unique Visions
The National Trust has unveiled six artistic proposals, each bringing a distinct interpretation to the legacy of the Sycamore Gap tree. From transforming the timber into new sculptural works to creating participatory projects that gather personal stories, the shortlisted entries encompass a range of innovative ideas. Notable proposals include symbolic carved seeds, community singing events, and platforms for discussions on climate change.
The artists in contention include collaborations from Alex Hartley and Tom James, Helix Arts with George King Architects, Mary Dalton, non zero one, Sam Williams Studio, and Trigger. Each artist brings a unique perspective, ensuring that the final artwork will resonate with the diverse emotions associated with the tree.
Balancing Public and Expert Input
Public votes will account for 30 per cent of the final decision, while a panel of judges composed of experts in nature and art will contribute the remaining 70 per cent. This blend of public engagement and expert evaluation aims to create a piece that not only commemorates the tree but also reflects the collective memory it has inspired.
The winning proposal will be announced in the spring, with the completed artwork expected to be unveiled by 2028. In the meantime, the main section of the tree’s trunk has been installed at the gateway to Northumberland National Park, serving as a poignant reminder of the beloved tree that once stood there.
The Broader Context
This initiative is part of a larger public engagement programme in response to the tree’s felling, supported by various organisations, including the Northumberland National Park Authority and Historic England. Additionally, communities across the UK were invited to apply for saplings grown from seeds salvaged from the original tree, which have now been planted nationwide.
As the nation rallies to remember the Sycamore Gap tree, heartwood prints created by printmaker Shona Branigan are currently on display at Seaton Delaval Hall, further engaging the public in this poignant narrative.
Why it Matters
The transformation of the Sycamore Gap tree into a work of art represents more than just a tribute; it is a vital act of collective healing and remembrance. In an era marked by environmental challenges and a growing disconnect from nature, this initiative serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural heritage. By voting for their preferred artist, the public is not only honouring a symbol of resilience but also playing an active role in the cultural dialogue about our relationship with the environment.
