Artists given chance to use wood from felled Sycamore Gap tree

Artists Given Chance to Use Wood from Felled Sycamore Gap Tree

Two years have passed since the iconic Sycamore Gap tree was felled, and now the National Trust is set to transform this loss into an opportunity for artistic creation. The organization has announced a significant creative commission, inviting artists to craft a "nationally important" work from the wood of this beloved tree. This initiative aims to inspire the community and breathe new life into the timber.

The Legacy of the Sycamore Gap Tree

Planted in the late 19th century by landowner John Clayton, the Sycamore Gap tree had become a symbol of Northumberland and was a focal point for many personal milestones, including marriage proposals and commemorations. Its unexpected felling in September 2023 led to widespread mourning and discussions about humanity's relationship with nature. Despite the loss, signs of new growth from the stump have sparked hope for natural regeneration.

The National Trust's Vision

The National Trust is determined to turn the tree's felling into a symbol of hope and creative possibility. According to Annie Reilly, the Trust's public engagement director, the commission is a way to continue the dialogue about our bond with the natural world. The Trust has preserved the wood, and now it's ready to be transformed into a public artwork that will engage and inspire audiences nationwide.

The Trust is calling for proposals from artists, organizations, and creative agencies. These proposals should aim to connect the public with nature and the surrounding landscapes, using the timber as a symbolic element. Ideas can range from a single artwork to multiple pieces or participatory projects, with the potential to reach a mass audience across the UK.

How to Engage

• Artists and groups are invited to submit their proposals between 13 October and 17 November 2025. Up to five proposals will be shortlisted, with each receiving £5,000 to further develop their ideas.
• The winning proposal, selected by experts and a public vote, will be announced in February 2026. The project has a total budget of £200,000, ensuring it can have a national impact.
• Visit The Sill, the visitor centre near Sycamore Gap, to view the largest remaining section of the tree, which is on permanent display as part of an exhibition.
• Support the planting of "trees of hope," including saplings from the Sycamore Gap tree, which have been distributed to various good causes across the UK, such as Alder Hey Children's Hospital in Liverpool.

This initiative by the National Trust not only preserves the memory of the Sycamore Gap tree but also fosters a deeper connection with nature through artistic expression.