ART AT THE HENDERSON

Audio Transcript

Welcome to the Breathing Tree, created by the American environmental artist Ned Kahn.

This remarkable piece, standing approximately 7 metres tall, is a living sculpture that truly “breathes” with the wind. Skillfully crafted from sleek stainless steel tubes, which form the sturdy trunk of the tree, this innovative design incorporates aluminum vanes that gracefully mimic the lively movement of leaves rustling in the wind, evoking a sense of vitality and motion. The broad canopy of branches extends outward, creating a captivating visual presence that encourages viewers to reflect on nature's interconnectedness and the significance of breathing. As a carbon-neutral, kinetic artwork, it also incorporates elements of mist, rain, and pools of water – creating a unique ecosystem with its own microclimate.

Kahn draws inspiration from the idea found in the classical Taoist text, the Tao Te Ching, which speaks of space being “empty, yet infinitely full.” While the trunk of Kahn’s sculpture may look hollow, it’s actually alive with movement and energy. Inside, a swirling vortex of air and water creates a cloud that mimics breathing, making the air exchange visible to our eyes. On calm days, you might notice mists of fog pulsing rhymically, much like a heartbeat.

The wind brings The Breathing Tree to life, symbolizing the essential role it plays in supporting plant life. Much of Kahn’s work aims to reveal about the beauty and fragility of nature, and with this piece, visible, he invites us to explore the intricate world of plants around us.

As you take your time in the Art Garden, pause to observe how the Breathing Tree breathes.