Copper Tree

I was commissioned to create this copper tree
sculpture for a local school in spring 2008, and
duly completed it in time for the opening of
their sculpture garden on 27th June.

Local press attended the opening, and staff and
pupils alike are enjoying this new feature.

The plan is for children to add their own copper
leaves in due course.

The tree is made from sheet copper, with a hand
crafted bark texture, and tig welded together
with copper rods. It's about 2M high with a 2M
span.

On completion it was chemically cleaned, then
darkened. Before applying several coats of
lacquer, and a top coat of wax, I rubbed the
surface lightly to highlight the texture.

The high price of copper has forced us to take
various theft prevention measures, including
liberal use of "smartwater" which makes the tree,
or any part of it instantly traceable if anyone
attempts to sell it.