The response to The Blue Trees by Konstantin Dimoupolos has been powerful! We are grateful for the discussion it has provoked, and it proves to us once again that this community is passionate (as we all should be!) about our public green spaces… particularly Pease Park.
This art installation provokes discussion about deforestation, climate change, and the importance of trees to our vast ecosystems.
While appreciation of the art is subjective, its safety, efficacy, and the process by which it was reviewed and approved are not. Here are the facts:
The colorant used on the trees is not a paint. It is a biologically safe, non-hazardous water-based colorant created specifically for this art installation. It has been used for installations in more than 30 cities across the globe without causing damage to the trees or the surrounding environment.
The Blue Trees and its colorant formula were vetted and approved by the City of Austin’s Urban Forestry Board, Art in Public Places, Watershed Protection Department, and by a public hearing of the City of Austin Arts Commission.
This installation engages the Austin community at-large with our Urban Forestry programs, calling us to consider the many ways that trees serve as pillars for our environment and urging us to protect and preserve our native tree species.
The educational component of this installation creates learning opportunities for community members of all ages. Many students are participating in the Blue Trees as their first field trip experience in the last 2 years.
30+ sites worldwide have adopted this installation in a green space. This level of diversified exposure serves as evidence that there are no negative impacts on the microfauna, soil, or wildlife present in the environment.
Resources
TreeFolks Reforestation Services
