Some species of fungus, such as the sulphur bracket (chicken of the woods), can break down the insides of the trunk’s heartwood. Yew eventually becomes hollow with age, akin to the slow rotting of the old establishment’s core. The tree re-cycles decaying matter into re-territorialised growths, highlighting the possibility of reformulating destructive features within contemporary society.
These processes, while disintegrating internal systems, can, over time, strengthen external structures against breakages. They can thus grow flexibly and resiliently, with some ability to sway with the wind.
This series has been inspired by psychoanalytic approaches to art-making, and has been generously funded in-part by an Arts Council England 'Develop Your Creative Practice' project grant. If you, or anyone you know is affected by sexual abuse, these organisations provide information about where you can find further support:
Please also feel free to get in touch if you would like to discuss any aspects of this project.