As time evolves, forward-thinking art forms continue to establish themselves within modern-day society. By definition, art isn’t something that’s limited by a pre-determined canvas. Now, contemporary artists are embracing the natural wonders of the world and are using them not only as inspiration but also as the foundations for imaginative designs.
Take street art, for example. After coming to fruition in the 1960s, it took a further 20 years before the practice enjoyed mainstream popularity. The same progression is now occurring regarding tree sculpting. Reportedly beginning as an art form in the 1920s, tree sculpting is arguably a natural counterpart to the urban-settings in which street art is generally found. As such, let’s consider whether tree sculpting can now rival the artistic appeal of street art.
The Growth of Tree Sculpting
According to Atlas Obscura, tree sculpting is evolving into a collective movement. In prior years, artists would work in isolation, but that has since changed. In the 21st century, tree shapers strive to share ideas and strategies as they embark on more ambitious ventures. On creation alone, this adventurous approach has unquestionably come to the forefront.
Interestingly, one reason that people enjoy street art relates to its ability to spark unexpected happiness by bringing light to suburban areas. While tree sculpting achieves the same result, it does so through more than just its aesthetic value. As per Amusing Planet, artists in this practice focus on practicality, as well as visual appeal. The report showcases Peter Cook, a prominent tree shaper, sitting in a living garden chair. The movement itself is the process of incorporating natural resources into our living environment, and the practice is known as Pooktre.
Although a refined form of tree sculpting, Pooktre demonstrates how the art of wood carving is continuously evolving. Despite its 16th-century roots, current projects thrive on bringing elements of fantasy into the real world.
Providing the Foundations for Business Ventures
Aside from practicality being a significant difference between street art and tree sculpting, the evolution of wood carving has laid the foundations for numerous modern-day businesses. While, of course, there are professional street artists who make a career out of their public designs, such as Banksy, it’s a less common profession than working as an arborist or in tree maintenance. Perhaps one of the reasons for this relates to consumer demand. Although many enjoy stumbling across street art, it’s generally not impacting home garden space.
As such, it’s now more convenient than ever before to kickstart a business working with trees. However, given the competitive nature of the industry as a result of the high demand, being insured is vital to helping your business grow by protecting it. With Next Insurance’s Pro and Pro Plus policies, securing tree service business risk management cover protects against advertising harm, bodily injuries, medical payments, and property damage. Moreover, given that the provider offers instant access to unlimited insurance certificates, demonstrating legitimacy and professionalism to prospective clients and employees has never been easier.
A Rival to Street Art?
As Margaret Wolfe Hungerford once said, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. As such, it’s impossible to say that there’s a superior practice out of street art and tree sculpting. However, it’s perhaps not unreasonable to suggest that there’s more depth regarding design possibilities in wood carving. As Pooktre demonstrates, 21st-century tree sculpting is about more than aesthetics.
About the Author
Mirko Humbert
Mirko Humbert is the editor-in-chief and main author of Designer Daily and Typography Daily. He is also a graphic designer and the founder of WP Expert.