NATIVE TREE WISDOM
Across the world, Indigenous people continue to honor and revere trees. Long considered to be sacred, their important contribution to climate, biodiversity, air and water quality, medicine, and health is all deeply valued by Native keepers of the land. For Native Americans in particular, trees symbolize permanence and longevity–their firm base symbolize the concept of 'roots' and an ongoing relationship with natural surroundings. The Cherokee call trees the Standing People.
We were honored to work with Native people throughout the creation of A Celebration of Trees, including Hopi - Tewa, Shinnecock, Montaukett, Mbuti and more. It remains our hope to bring an Indigenous philosophy to the exhibition, and celebrate Native peoples’ divine connection to the tree world from every corner of the globe.
“The painting Spiritual Giant is a project that started year ago and completed in 2022. It is one of my art pieces that have transformed over time. It is the big tree of Zimbabwe, the Baobab. In some areas it is regarded spiritual. Animals and people alike also benefit in different ways from it. The hollowed ones can be shelter too. I find it magical and fascinating how we interact with our nature to build a sustainable relationship.In this piece I used acrylic and oil paint to express the lasting love that surrounds us. I have used colour and texture to interact with my imagination.”
HUGH MBAYIWA
