Case Study: Felling a Diseased Ash Tree for Turner Contemporary’s preserve Exhibition
Client: Turner Contemporary
Location: Lees Court, Kent
Project Duration: 13 Months of Planning and Execution
Project Overview:
About Trees Ltd. partnered with Turner Contemporary to fell a large ash tree affected by ash dieback for Anya Gallaccio’s preserve exhibition. As a local Margate resident, I took immense pride in playing a role in this project, helping to bring awareness to environmental issues through art in my own community. Our team supported the project from site selection through to the final felling, collaborating closely with the artist and gallery.
Site Selection and Planning:
The selection process was extensive, as it was essential to find a tree that matched both the aesthetic and practical needs of the exhibit. After surveying several potential sites, including Quex Park in Thanet and Belmont House and Gardens in Faversham, we ultimately selected a mature ash tree at Lees Court in Kent. This site was chosen for its tree’s size, maturity, and the ability to align with the artist’s vision. Following site selection, we planned the project over several months, ensuring each phase was meticulously detailed.
Collaborative Felling Process:
During the felling, Anya Gallaccio supervised each cut, ensuring her vision was executed precisely. About Trees Ltd. used specialised equipment, including a JCB telehandler and elevated work platforms, allowing for careful access to each section of the tree. Each piece was then gently lowered to the ground, preserving the natural form and ensuring no damage. This hands-on approach with the artist allowed us to tailor the process to meet the exhibit’s conceptual needs.
Weighing and Transportation:
One unique aspect was the requirement to weigh each section after cutting. Working closely with Turner Contemporary’s team, we measured each segment on-site, recording the weights to match installation specifications. This additional step underscored the collaborative effort, ensuring that every element of the felling was documented and aligned with the exhibit’s structural and visual requirements.
Environmental and Safety Considerations:
Given the tree’s compromised condition due to ash dieback, safety was a top priority. We followed rigorous protocols throughout the process, minimising risks and protecting the surrounding environment. Adhering to sustainable practices, we ensured no parts of the tree were wasted, aligning our work with the exhibition’s themes of environmental awareness and conservation.
Project Outcome:
The carefully selected and prepared tree is now a focal point of Gallaccio’s preserve exhibition, symbolising the challenges of environmental change. This project highlighted About Trees Ltd.’s commitment to precision, collaboration, and ecological stewardship, showcasing how arboricultural expertise can support impactful cultural projects. I feel privileged to have contributed to a project so close to home, sharing my pride in Margate with visitors and inspiring them to consider the importance of preserving our natural environment.