Giving Tree Klehm Arboretum

In the city of Chicago, I have observed tree roots breaking sidewalks and taking over as much space as possible. It is a striking force of nature that resists the confines of the curb and the sidewalk. From my research for this application, I learned that these exposed roots are not a positive sign since the tree is stretching itself towards the surface for nutrients and oxygen. The proposed sculpture “The Giving Tree” is a stump with exposed roots that references the earth giving us everything along with signs of stress and yet we keep taking. The burnt umber color references this stress and is the color of fire in need of oxygen while hints of blue, green and gold are fires at the hottest temperatures. Like the ending of Shel Silverstein’s book, as a stump, the tree continues to give as a place of rest and for this application as an interactive piece of public art. These concepts seem to exemplify the exhibition purposes of Rooted in Rockford: Art and Tree Science at Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden that explore the combination of science, education and art.