Tree-based living sculpture to come to Bristol

A project to create a living sculpture with 365 native trees will begin this winter at the new Lower Chew Forest.

Echo Wood is born from a collaboration between Bristol artist Luke Jerram, who has presented more than 900 exhibitions worldwide, and woodland creation charity Avon Needs Trees.

The artwork, which will be part of the new forest, features a design spanning 110 metres in width and is made entirely of trees. Its full splendour will unfold gradually as the trees grow.

Echo Wood will feature pathways and avenues enveloped in seasonal plants that will serve as a guide through the forest, leading up to a central circular gathering made from 12 English oaks.

Besides the English oak, the sculpture will see planted crab apple trees, field maple, bird cherry, dogwood and hawthorn.

Luke Jerram said: “It’s amazing to have the opportunity to create an artwork that will take decades to fully form but will last for hundreds of years and bring joy to generations of visitors”.

Avon Needs Trees acquired the 422-acre forest between Bristol and Bath in 2024, making Lower Chew Forest their biggest site to date.

Their aim is to increase woodland cover in the South West and, consequently, fight against climate change.

Main photo: Avon Needs Trees

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