The National Trust has selected a unique soundscape as the winning entry in its competition to commemorate the Sycamore Gap tree, which was illegally felled in September 2023. The ambitious artwork aims to honour the memory of the iconic tree, a beloved landmark situated next to Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland National Park, through an immersive auditory experience rather than a physical replacement.
The competition was launched following the widespread public outcry and sadness after the 200-year-old sycamore was cut down. It sought innovative proposals that could capture the spirit and significance of the tree, which had become a symbol of the Northumberland landscape and a popular photographic subject, famously appearing in the 1991 film 'Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves'. The National Trust, which owns the land where the tree stood, emphasised the desire for a sensitive and meaningful tribute.
The winning soundscape proposal moves away from traditional visual art forms, instead focusing on creating an auditory journey that evokes the tree's presence and its natural surroundings. Details about the specific sounds, composition, and the artist behind the winning entry are expected to be fully unveiled in due course. This approach allows for a reflective and contemplative experience, acknowledging the void left by the tree while offering a new way to connect with its legacy.
The artwork is intended to be displayed at a National Trust location, providing visitors with an opportunity to engage with the memory of Sycamore Gap. This initiative forms part of the ongoing efforts to address the impact of the felling, which saw two individuals arrested in connection with the incident and released on bail. The National Trust has also been working to preserve segments of the felled tree, with discussions ongoing about their potential future use.
The decision to commission a soundscape reflects a growing trend in public art to engage multiple senses and create more experiential commemorations. It underscores the National Trust's commitment to finding a respectful and artistic way to acknowledge the loss of a natural icon, ensuring its story continues to resonate with the public in an imaginative and thought-provoking manner.