Belfast sculpture takes root 22 November 2018
Belfast sculpture takes root for trees – A modern–day tree charter represented by new sculpture (via The Woodland Trust)
Photo by Michael Cooper
A new 15–foot–high sculpture of solid oak has been unveiled at the Woodland Trust’s Friends of Belvoir Wood in south Belfast.
The crafty creation is one of 11 handcrafted poles, by woodcarver Simon Clements, situated at sites across the UK. The sculptures are a physical and permanent legacy of the Charter for Trees, Woods and People, launched in November last year.
The Charter for Trees, Woods and People was inspired by the original medieval Charter of the Forest, which – some 800 years ago – reinstated the rights of everyday folk to access the Royal Forests. Livelihoods depended upon the all–important opportunity to graze livestock, forage for food and collect firewood.
Today’s charter, with the importance of trees and woodland still firmly at the core, is the handiwork of conservation charity the Woodland Trust, with input from over 70 other organisations.
More than 60,000 tree stories were shared by members of the public, demonstrating the importance of trees to the individual. The recurring sentiments, such as the need for increased protection for our natural heritage, were used to form the 10 principles of the charter.
Northern Ireland’s charter pole represents the theme of planning – the importance of planning greener local landscapes. A short poem and woodland images twist around the pole. The carefully chosen words were inspired by artist Christine Mackey.
