Nature has a way of grounding us, but these artists are taking that connection to a whole new level. Instead of just walking through the woods, they are turning trees into massive sculptures, guardians, and storytellers that demand we stop and take a second look.
Whether it’s a giant pair of hands cradling a sapling or a face emerging from the bark, these 8 photos remind us that the environment isn’t just a backdrop, it’s something worth holding onto.
More: Tree of Life (11 Photos)
1. Give by Lorenzo Quinn in Valencia, Spain
Lorenzo Quinn is world-renowned for his massive sculptures of hands, and “Give” is one of his most poignant. By placing a real olive tree (first photo) within the palms of these giant white hands, he creates a powerful symbol of our responsibility to nurture and protect the life that sustains us.
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2. UMI by Daniel Popper in Chicago, Illinois
Standing tall at the Morton Arboretum, this motherly figure made of interlaced branches seems to be emerging directly from the earth. Daniel Popper’s work often explores the bridge between humanity and nature, inviting visitors to step inside the sculpture and feel the embrace of the woods.More photos!: “UMI” Sculpture by Daniel Popper in Lisle, Illinois
Daniel Popper: “UMI” – Meaning Life in Swahili and Mother in Arabic. 1 of 5 new works from the Human + Nature exhibition opening today at the The Morton Arboretum in Lisle, Illinois. Surrounding the base of the Earth Mother we have planted Virginia Creepers. I am looking forward to watching them grow and the artwork evolve over time in this beautiful space. Made from steel & GFRC (Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete), 20ft tall. The pieces will on display for 1 year. May you all enjoy interacting with her as much as we enjoyed creating her.
🔗 Follow Daniel Popper on Instagram
3. Caring Hand by Eva Oertli and Beat Huber in Glarus, Switzerland
This iconic sculpture makes it look as though the earth itself has reached up to gently support the trunk of a tree. It’s a quiet, effective reminder that the survival of our forests is quite literally in our hands, tucked away in a beautiful park in Switzerland.
About and more photos: The Caring Hand – Sculpture in Glarus, Switzerland
4. The Tree of Life in Aburi, Ghana
Located in the Aburi Botanical Gardens, this incredible intricate carving transforms a living tree into a vertical tapestry of human figures. Known as the “Tree of Life,” it represents the interconnectedness of all people and our deep-rooted history with the natural world.
More about The Tree of Life!: Tree of Life – From Aburi Botanical Gardens located in Aburi, Ghana (video and 5 pics)
5. Family Tree by Falko One in Riebeek West, South Africa
Falko One uses a crumbling wall and a nearby tree to create a “Family Tree” that spans across materials. The painted hands reaching out from the building to touch the real branches create a bridge between urban decay and living growth, symbolizing a reach for connection.
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6. Hallow by Daniel Popper in Lisle, Illinois
Another masterpiece from the Morton Arboretum, this figure appears to be pulling open her own chest to reveal a hollow interior filled with trees. It’s a literal representation of keeping nature close to your heart, encouraging passersby to walk through the opening and see the world from a new perspective. More: 5 Photos of Sculpture “Hallow” By Daniel Popper in Lisle, Illinois
🔗 Follow Daniel Popper on Instagram
7. Vortex at Little Milford Woods by Jon Foreman
Jon Foreman uses fallen leaves to create a mesmerizing swirl that climbs up a tree trunk and spills onto the forest floor. It’s a temporary intervention that highlights the natural beauty of the changing seasons, proving that you don’t need permanent materials to make a big impact. More!: 9 Leaf Sculptures That Stir the Soul in the Forest (Art by Jon Foreman)
🔗 Follow Jon Foreman on Instagram
8. Wendy, I’m Home!
In a playful and slightly startling bit of street art, an artist has used the natural split in a tree trunk to frame a famous face. By painting a wide-eyed, grinning portrait inside the wood, they’ve given this tree a personality that is impossible to ignore as you walk by.
More: When Trees Become Art (12 Photos)
Which one is your favorite?
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