‘Turning a moment of loss into something hopeful’

People across the UK are being invited to help decide how the story of the beloved Sycamore Gap tree will live on, after six artists were shortlisted to create a major public artwork from its wood.

The poll, launched by the National Trust, asks the public to vote for their favourite proposal, which will make up 30% of the final decision, with the remaining 70% determined by a judging panel that includes artists, curators and experts in nature connection. The winning artist will use wood saved from the tree to create a lasting tribute, with the final work to be completed by 2028.

The tree, which stood beside Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland, was illegally felled in September 2023. The act sparked widespread sadness and outrage, with many people sharing personal memories of visiting the site – one of the most photographed trees in the country. Now, organisers hope the next chapter of the tree’s story can be shaped collectively.

“Over the past two years, we’ve heard extraordinary stories about what the Sycamore Gap tree meant to people,” said Annie Reilly, public engagement director at the National Trust and chair of the judging panel. “From moments of celebration and milestones to quiet memories of loss, connection and reflection. It became more than a tree; it became part of the emotional landscape of the nation.”

After being carefully stored and allowed to season over the last 28 months, the wood is now ready for artists to work with.

“We always wanted to make sure that the tree had an extraordinary legacy,” continues Reilly. “This vote is now the opportunity for the public to help shape the on-going story. Each of the six proposals honours the tree in a different way, and we want people to choose the idea that captures what the Sycamore Gap tree meant to them.” 

Six artists and creative teams from across the UK have been shortlisted, each proposing a different way of commemorating the tree. Ideas range from sculptural installations made from the original timber to nationwide participatory projects involving storytelling, symbolic carved “seeds” and community gatherings.

The shortlisted artists are Alex Hartley and Tom James; Helix Arts with George King Architects; Mary Dalton; non zero one; Sam Williams Studio; and Trigger.

Among the judging panel is Professor Miles Richardson, who says the project highlights the emotional bonds people form with nature.

This project is built on the belief that something hopeful and unifying can come from such a painful loss

“When symbols like the Sycamore Gap tree are lost, it reminds us of the deep emotional bonds we can form with the living world,” he said. “This commission is about more than an artwork – it’s an invitation to renew our relationship with nature, to notice and celebrate it every day, and to take action to protect the natural world. The public’s involvement is vital because this connection belongs to everyone.”

The commission also follows other initiatives designed to extend the tree’s legacy. Forty-nine saplings grown from its seeds have already been planted around the UK through the Trees of Hope project, while the main section of the trunk is now displayed at The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre.

Sarah Munro, creative director of the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art and a member of the judging panel, said the commission reflects the wide affection people felt for the tree.

“Sycamore Gap has long been a symbol of connection – between people, place and memory,” she said. “The shortlisted artists bring exceptional imagination, sensitivity and skill. Each offers a unique way of honouring the tree’s loss while celebrating its enduring place in our shared cultural memory.”

Organisers hope the public vote will help turn a moment of loss into something hopeful.

“This project is built on the belief that something hopeful and unifying can come from such a painful loss,” said Reilly. “We hope as many people as possible will take part, explore the proposals, and help shape the future story of the tree.”

Voting is open until 28 March, with the winning proposal due to be announced later this spring.

Main image: John Millar