City of Trees- A Pollarded Landscape

To pollard trees or participate in the ‘lopping’ season is to periodically cut branches back to head height every 10-20 years, in Epping Forest, this was most commonly done to Oak, Hornbeam and Beech trees.

This ancient ritual not only created a renewable crop of firewood for Epping’s surrounding residents but extended the life of these pollards and moulded them into the fantastical forms you’ll find in the forest today. This symbiotic relationship between humans and trees ensured light could reach the forest floor creating a biodiverse woodland of unique flora and fauna that made it their home.

In an immersive outdoor installation by Matthew Rosier, the Ancient trees of Epping Forest will be conjured in the heart of the City. The installation will feature life-size fire lit video portraits of ancient pollards, projected onto the tower of St Mary Aldermary Church with accompanying soundscapes.

Experience the immersive installation at St Mary Aldermary Church,
6-11pm | 4- 11 November.

https://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/event...

Credits:
Written & Directed by Matthew Rosier
Video by Greg Barnes
Music by NYX & Laura Misch
Recorded by James Bulley
With thanks to Nina Williams and Gavin Bodenham

Commissioned by the City of London Corporation as part of the Outdoor Arts Programme, A Thing of Beauty.