Temporary Installation at Market Square, RISD

Materials: Pine Oak trunks of fallen trees from Wolf Hill Forest Preserve, Smithfield, Rhode Island. Pine Oak trunks of fallen trees from Olivia’s Forest, Smithfield, Rhode Island. Found 2”x4” Pine wood studs. Birch wooden dowels. Oak wooden dowels.

Dimensions: 7.75ft x 5ft x 6ft
(236cm x 152cm x 182cm)

Details
The Tree Monument embodies the essence of trees, capturing their movements and perspectives. Despite their stationary nature, trees possess the remarkable ability to nurture entire forests. While firmly rooted in one place throughout their lives, they serve as the mothers of future woodlands.

Though seemingly immobile, the wind carried the seeds for miles to nearby forests. These seeds sprout, giving rise to a new generation of trees. After falling, their bodies decompose, and vital nutrients seep into the soil, absorbed by the intricate network of forest roots.
From the earliest days of human civilization, our existence has been intricately intertwined with trees. We rely on them to thrive. They release oxygen, allowing us to breathe. We seek solace beneath their shade. We harvest them to fashion weapons, construct shelters and homes, and provide warmth through fire. The Tree Monument is a testament to the enduring significance of these majestic beings.

Stage 2:

The sculpture was observed for 7 days until the Tree Monument succumbed to the force of the wind, descends to the ground, and completed its life cycle.