Respect your Roots

Intro

I see so many comparisons between ourselves and the nature that surrounds us. The structure of our veins are so similar to the venation of a leaf and there are also remarkable similarities between the rings within a tree trunk and the human fingerprint. It is clear we are all interconnected on this earth. Something I find so fascinating about human kind is the vast difference between who we show we are and who we really are. Much like a tree, we tend to present like an iceberg with a smaller surface area for everyone to see above ground, whilst all the hard work and the true depth of our being are happening underneath.

Recently I discovered the role of “mother” trees. After reading Dr Simards recent works ‘Finding the Mother Tree: Discovering the Wisdom of the Forest’ it opened my eyes to an ancient way of life happening on our planet that I had not been conscious of before. Within forests, mother trees use their own root structure to support smaller saplings and to exchange nutrients. Much like us, trees are social beings; founded by their ancestors and strengthened by a symbiotic community. I have therefore chosen the title “Respect your Roots” to reflect their importance. To quote Dr Simard; “The forest is wired for wisdom, sentience, and healing.” I believe there are lessons within nature surrounding us all the time, if only we could take a long enough pause to see.

Concept

As Dr Simard states; “Mother trees are the biggest, oldest trees in the forest. They are the glue that holds the forest together.” I wish to highlight the role of mother trees by celebrating the parts that we do not see; the roots. I plan to create an upside down tree, with the blossoms and branches sprawling out at undulating levels along the ground designed to look like the forest floor. These floral elements will then climb up toward the strong trunk made of weaved willow, which twists up with elements of moss and ivy to the root focus of the design. Using a variety of branch materials, these will represent the roots that will come up out of the centre of the weaved trunk and over a hoop structure that will be attached to the ceiling rigging and cascade back down.

Conclusion

Mother trees play a vital role within our ecosystem. The forest’s biodiversity is what creates its stability. Each species brings something different and together they create a sustainable synergy. I feel that this intelligent system should be respected and that we should look towards it more often for guidance.

I also believe that trees provide a crucial reminder to humanity of the importance of a collaborative society, especially in light of climate change.

We are stronger together.