National Trust Sycamore Gap Timber Art Commission
Open call for artists to create artworks using timber from the iconic felled Sycamore Gap tree. £5k for shortlisted artists, winner selected Feb 2026.
The National Trust has launched an open call for artists and organisations to create artworks using timber from the legendary Sycamore Gap tree, which was illegally felled two years ago near Hadrian's Wall. This unique commission offers approximately half of the tree's timber to artists for creative projects that explore themes of connection to nature, memory, place, or community. The opportunity runs from October 13 to November 17, 2025, with five shortlisted artists or collaborations receiving £5,000 each to develop detailed proposals. These finalists will gain access to a catalogue of available wood and work with a partnership board including Northumberland National Park Authority, Historic England, and the Hadrian's Wall Partnership. The winner will be announced in February 2026, selected by sector experts with input from a public vote. Proposals can range from single artworks for one location to multiple pieces or participatory projects designed to inspire public connection with nature and landscapes. This commission is part of a broader public engagement programme, with the largest remaining section of the tree on permanent display at The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre. Artists are encouraged to create works that will reach and engage many people, using the symbolic timber as a focal point for important conversations about our collective relationship with nature.
Submission Guidelines
Proposals should explore themes including connection to nature, memory, place, or community. Projects can be single artworks, multiple pieces, or participatory works designed to inspire public connection with nature. Shortlisted artists will receive access to a catalogue of available Sycamore Gap timber.
How to Apply
1. Step 1: Prepare proposal exploring themes of nature, memory, place, or community using Sycamore Gap timber
2. Step 2: Submit application between October 13-November 17, 2025
3. Step 3: If shortlisted, develop detailed proposal with £5,000 funding and access to timber catalogue
Application & Contact
Contact: Annie Reilly, National Trust public engagement director (specific contact details not provided)
Source: https://museumsandheritage.com/advisor/posts/national-trust-launches-call-for-artworks-using-felled-sycamore-gap-timber/