Wonder and recognition

For this exhibition Meadow arts has invited nine artists to make or show work that is inspired by man’s relationship to trees. These can be seen across the Croft parkland, in and around the walled garden, in the and the Castle itself as well as in early 19th century stables which have been temporarily transformed into an exhibition space.

Croft’s magnificent ancient trees and the beautiful landscape they stand in are a much loved treasure of the Welsh Border; they directly inspired this exhibition. The sight of ancient trees invariably moves us with wonder and admiration and we are drawn to them by an almost subconscious attraction. The exhibition asks us to question what this strong bond between man and trees is made of: is it an ancient, elemental recognition or is it related to more cultural and emotional associations? Trees are often thought of as works of art in themselves and they have fascinated artists for centuries.

In the last decades trees and woodland have come to feature highly on the environmental agenda after alarms were first raised about the impact of global deforestation. Though this is a process that began centuries ago, motivated amongst other causes by the need for shelter and fuel, agricultural and commercial development, naval trade and warfare.

The parkland at Croft is a prime example of the conservation challenges faced by the National Trust and other organisations such as the Woodland Trust. The art works themselves will hopefully highlight the beauty and fragility of this invaluable heritage.

Anne de Charmant
Director, Meadow Arts