It is not so much for its beauty that the forest makes a claim upon men’s hearts, as for that subtle something, that quality of air, that emanation from old trees, that so wonderfully changes and renews a weary spirit” - Unknown

Four artists, currently under the mentorship and guidance of Ricky Burnett, come together in this evocative exhibition that celebrates the visual, formal aspects of trees, as well as the powerful impact they have on the world around us.

Sandy Behrmann, Belinde Fourie, Vivianne Jaques and Maria Angela Patrizi share a studio space in Johannesburg where they interact and paint alongside one another. Perhaps as a result of working so closely together, a subtle collective-consciousness developed and they all found themselves painting trees in their own techniques and through their own artistic visions.

Appropriately displayed in the largest man-made forest in the world, Johannesburg, this exhibition is an exploration of not only the magnificent architecture and remarkable shapes that lie within these ancient, perennial plants but also the influence that trees have on us, our state of mind, our lives and our environments. The result of this artistic and intellectual cross-pollination has resulted in a diverse and exciting exhibition that pays homage to one of earth’s most loved life forms.