The Tree of Life sculpture was rooted in place in 2023 sitting at the centre of the roundabout and forming a landmark gateway to Wichelstowe from the south. The artwork by Sebastien Boyesen, is formed out of two different types of metal with stainless steel flora and fauna on top of a steel base. These have been laser-cut and connected with rods in varying lengths attached to the surface of the structure to create a three-dimensional effect. The flora and fauna represent plants and animals that are indigenous to Wiltshire and commonly seen throughout the Wichelstowe development, such as water voles, bees, dragonflies, forget-me-nots, hawthorn and dog roses.
Sebastien has a track record of delivering meaningful installations locally having previously been tasked to design the footbridge over the Wilts and Berks Canal in the Wichelstowe District Centre. He said: “After numerous hard yet enjoyable hours in the workshop, it’s such a thrill to finally see this stunning sculpture finally take pride of place at Wichelstowe. I feel honoured to have been tasked and trusted with yet another piece of milestone artwork in the region. I hope the local community take it to their hearts, as I have.”
Wichelstowe’s twitter and Instagram followers voted on their favourite animal, with the heron coming out on top and being placed in pride of place welcoming visitors to the site.
The Tree of Life sculpture is 5.6m tall and 4.4m wide. It was built in different panels and transported to Wichelstowe to be assembled on site. The crane was booked for the next day so it was a race against time to put it all together.
The Tree of Life was a key part of Wichelstowe’s success in winning the Placemaking Award at the Insider’s South West Residential Property Awards 2024 event. The judges were impressed by the “harnessing of art, green initiatives and locally-led influences, creating a place that has a tangible sense of pride surrounding it.”
