The Wonder of DC Trees Traveling Exhibit

The “Wonders of DC Trees” is about to reach a third milestone in its circuit of notable DC venues.

“The Wonders of DC Trees” showcases an eight-panel traveling exhibition and is accompanied by original artworks using tree themes to celebrate DC’s leafy canopy. Included in this exhibition are sculptures, paintings, and mixed media. Accompanying artworks take, not only trees as a starting point, but also exploits arboreal remains like bark, twigs, driftwood, lumber, or tree pulp as the medium. Subjects vary widely. A path through the woods evokes the stark enchantment of Rock Creek Park. Contrasting veneers suggest the shape of trees. A heron haunts the swampy sphere of cattail and deadfall. Steps lead upward to nature’s cathedral door. In addition, there is figurative work carved in wood and a painting of an elm in front of the iconic Smithsonian Castle. 

The traveling exhibition of collapsible panels was developed in partnership with Casey Trees, who provided the content and graphics for the panels. These panels bring awareness of the many roles trees play in building a greener and more climate-resilient city for future generations. Attention is given to street beautification and park green-space, and the selection of different species to best complement the architectural scale and character of distinctive settings. Flood and erosion control, as well as wildlife support, also figure in the mix of arboreal impacts. The panel on recycling features ZCAF’s own experience converting downed local trees into dried lumber for the Pre Apprenticeship Carpentry Training program .