Potential inherently exists within all of us. Experience and perception shape that potential to something sustainable or unsustainable. This giant gestural “Squiggle” line is just that- on the brink of its potential, where all ideas start.

This infected Ash tree, being over 40 feet high and with a diameter of 13’ at its widest diameter, posed quite a threat- as it being so large and at such a potential to fall due to the nature of the infesting insect (emerald ash borer). However, it also posed a huge potential to help spread awareness of the insect through the Nashville Tree Project. 

This concept is double layered. Not only is it giving new potential for this infested tree (as it was destined to be cut down), but the metaphor itself of renewal and potential is being displayed in hopes of inspiring such ideas of renewal and potential in all who experience this public sculpture. Sometimes one can find potential of positivity and sustainable action in situations where it seems hopeless or too big to handle. 

What you see is through weeks of labor using only hand tools. This tree has been cut and shaped selectively to veer off into its own gesture and movement. Using my grandfather’s pull knife I carved to the cadmium layer and charred it. This method of burning is Japanese, traditionally called “Shosugiban.” There has been no pigment or paint added to the wood, only burning (lightly sealed in the first 9’ to withstand curious touching). 

The idea of using fire as a controlled sustainable act of preserving instead of uncontrolled chaos and destruction yields to another metaphor. Potential exists within the most dire of circumstances, this tree, infested with an insect with a 100% death rate spreading in an almost uncontrollable manner gives us, the stewards of this land the chance to come together as a community to educate and eradicate together. Protecting our precious canopy for the future “us” to enjoy. A metaphor for potential, this public sculpture is a gestural black line, playful and inquisitive, where all ideas start.