Sycamore Gap Tree to Be Reborn as Public Art by 2028
The Sycamore Gap tree, famously felled in September 2023, will soon live on as a public artwork. The National Trust has launched a project to turn its wood into a lasting tribute. Now, the public is being asked to help shape its future.
Since the tree's illegal felling, its wood has been carefully stored and seasoned for 28 months. Artists will use this preserved timber to create a memorial, set to be completed by 2028.
The National Trust has shortlisted six artists, each offering a unique vision. Proposals range from sculptural installations to storytelling and community events. All aim to celebrate the tree's place in cultural memory and reconnect people with nature.
A public vote is now open, accounting for 30% of the final decision. Anyone can choose their favourite design before the poll closes on 28 March. The winning proposal will be announced later this spring.
Meanwhile, 49 Sycamore Gap saplings planted across the UK as part of the Trees of Hope project remain young. None have yet matured enough to bear seeds or fruit.
The chosen artwork will stand as a tribute to the iconic tree. Its creation will involve both artists and the community, ensuring the Sycamore Gap's legacy endures. The final piece is expected to be unveiled within the next four years.
