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Hanging Tree Installation (3 pics + video)

This installation, by Japanese artist Shinji Turner-Yamamoto, is incredibly powerful. A hanging tree, with its roots sprawled out, is seen hanging in mid-air inside an abandoned church in Cincinnati. Turner-Yamamoto chose the decrepit church because he liked the marks of decay carved into the architecture by time and nature. “Hanging Garden” is part of Turner-Yamamoto's larger Global Tree Project, which encourages community participation in the creation of each sculpture. Local volunteers help artists locate and transport a chosen tree for their installation and then participate in its re-planting when the exhibition ends. “I saw a large, uprooted oak in a park,” said Turner-Yamamoto. “It laid as if sleeping on the hill. Its leaves were still very green. A few days later, when I returned, the tree was gone, leaving a mound of earth in it's place. I envisioned a new tree growing on this mound. “Like a tree in the forest surrounded by other trees and plants, these trees are given singular sculptural presence. By taking a tree out of it's natural context, I invite viewers to experience nature in a normal, more contemplative way.”

Shinji Turner-Yamamoto Global Tree Project via [inhabitat], [good]

Eugene Kim

Eugene Kim is the Editor-in-Chief of My Modern Met. In May, 2008, he co-founded the website to create one big city that celebrates creative ideas. His mission is to promote a positive culture by spotlighting the best sides of humanity—from the lighthearted and fun to the thought-provoking and enlightening.
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