HeartWood is an urban forest sculpture that weaves together strands of art, wellbeing and sustainability.
Designed with micro forest principals using the miyawaki method, it aims to create a soft contemplative space in our urban environment that looks towards fostering empathy, healing and hope.
The aim is for HeartWood to be an inclusive place that is accessible to all.
The project is born out of the uncertain times and the loss that people are experiencing in terms of health and loss of habitat. This project aims to bring people together through positive action that puts living art forms at the heart of urban wellbeing.
Dig a hole, plant a tree, grow some hope.
By organising these simple actions and providing an intentional symbolic framework for planting, we will create a sculpture in the form of a micro forest within the heart of our city.
We recognise art is a powerful tool to express and process human emotions. HeartWood offers contemporary ritual with collective planting and accessibility for contemplation and transformation.
Catharsis for the doer.
Connection for the observer.
“Manatū Taonga recognises the innovation of the application of indigenous practices in an urban environment, intersecting art, wellbeing, culture, and the environment. This project demonstrates strong community-led, collaborative, public space attributes, led by a capable team with a robust plan for consultation with local council, iwi and community.
The project has the potential to have an enduring impact on the public’s relationship with loss, whenua and the environment.”
