Full Breakdown
Public Invited to Vote on Artwork for Sycamore Gap Tree
3/15/2026, 4:52:28 AM
Overview of the Initiative
The National Trust has launched a public voting initiative to select one of six shortlisted artists to create an artwork from the wood of the illegally felled Sycamore Gap tree. This tree, which had stood for over a century along Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland, was cut down in September 2023 by Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers, who were subsequently jailed for their actions. The public vote, which runs until March 28, 2024, will contribute 30% to the final decision, with a panel of art and nature experts providing the remaining 70%.
Background of the Sycamore Gap Tree
The Sycamore Gap tree, believed to have been planted in the late 1880s, became a beloved landmark, symbolizing connection and reflection for many. Its destruction sparked national outrage and grief, prompting the National Trust to seek creative ways to honor its legacy. The initiative aims to shape the tree's next chapter by utilizing half of its timber for a "nationally important" commission.
Shortlisted Artists and Proposals
The six shortlisted artists and their proposals are as follows:
- Alex Hartley and Tom James (Devon and London): Their project, "Viewpoint," involves creating an elevated platform from the tree's wood, allowing visitors to engage with the space where the tree once stood.
- Helix Arts x George King Architects (North East): Their proposal, "The People's Tree: A Shared Story," focuses on community engagement through an archive of stories and a sound sculpture near the Gap.
- Mary Dalton (Hampshire): Her project, "Sycamore Gap Black," aims to create artists' materials from the wood, leading to a touring exhibition that shares the tree's story.
- non zero one (London): Their concept, "SEEDS," invites participants to receive specially made sycamore seeds inlaid with wood from the tree, fostering a connection with nature.
- Sam Williams Studio (Sussex): "Stories of 1,000 Trees" is a storytelling project that collects narratives about trees and brings them back to Sycamore Gap for reflection.
- Trigger (Bristol): Their proposal, "Twirl," includes a live sonic experience with instruments made from the tree, allowing participants to engage in a communal event.
Official Statements
Annie Reilly, the National Trust's public engagement director, emphasized the significance of the Sycamore Gap tree, stating, "Over the past two years, we've heard extraordinary stories about what the Sycamore Gap tree meant to people... It became part of the emotional landscape of the nation." She highlighted that the public vote allows individuals to contribute to the ongoing narrative of the tree.
Conclusion and Future Plans
The winning proposal will be announced in the spring of 2024, with the final artwork expected to be completed by 2028. This initiative is part of a broader public engagement program supported by organizations including Northumberland National Park Authority and Historic England. Additionally, saplings grown from seeds rescued from the original tree have been planted across the UK, furthering the legacy of the Sycamore Gap tree.
