The Journey of the Ash Tree
During the week of 23rd June, a remarkable chapter in the life of a much-loved ash tree quietly came to a close, as it returned home to Lees Court Estate — not standing tall as it once did, but in the form of carefully preserved and thoughtfully repositioned sections.
This tree, from the Estate’s own woodlands, had already been marked for felling due to Ash Dieback, has been on an extraordinary journey. Once seen by celebrated artist Anya Gallaccio, she chose to have it as part of her exhibition Anya Gallaccio: preserve, which ran from the 28th September 2024 to 26th January 2025 at Turner Contemporary in Margate. The tree was carefully felled in sections, with every branch and twig labelled and transported to Margate where it was then transformed into a powerful sculptural installation, showcasing both the beauty and fragility of nature. Mosses and lichens clinging to its bark were lovingly kept watered during the exhibition, a touching testament to the care with which the installation — and the tree — were treated.
Following the exhibition’s close, the tree was stored safely back at Lees Court before it was gently returned to the woods in late June. It is resting once again near its original roots, where it can slowly become part of the landscape, gradually decaying and bringing habitat and protection to many small insects and plant life.
One large section of the tree has been held back, as it may yet return to Anya, who has grown deeply attached to this particular tree. In a continuation of its journey, several smaller branches are destined for a new and unexpected role — adorning the walls of The Countess Sondes’ home, carrying with them memories of both the exhibition and the woodland which are so cherished.
This story — of a tree, an artist, and a landscape — shows how nature and creativity can be intertwined. It also reflects the care and thoughtfulness that the Estate, Anya and Turner Contemporary has shown through this process from start to finish, ensuring that even in dismantling, the tree continues to be part of the landscape.
Photo Credit: Installation view, Anya Gallaccio: preserve, Turner Contemporary. Photo: Jo Underhill