Trees as Characters
Trees are vital. As the biggest plants on the planet, they give us oxygen, store carbon, stabilise the soil and give life to the world's wildlife. They also provide us with the materials for tools and shelter. Today, trees absorb one-third of global emissions every year. And when we burn them, all of that pollution gets released into the air. They give us clean water to drink, air to breathe, shade and food to humans, animals and plants. They provide habitats for numerous species of fauna and flora, firewood for cooking and heat, materials for buildings and places of spiritual, cultural and recreational importance.
Project
For this project, we'd like you to think about trees and their feelings. What would a happy tree look like? Or, what would a sad tree look like? Using your sketch pad, pencil and crayons make a drawing that shows a happy tree and a sad tree. In 1905, a famous artist named Gustav Klimt made an important painting called "The Tree of Life". In this painting he used spirals, patterns, animals and people. Think about the insects and animals that live in your trees and include them in your drawing.
Untitled, plate 9 of 9, from the portfolio, Topiary: The Art of Improving Nature, 1998 by Louise Bourgeois
