In times like these we need to be reminded of our connection to nature. Trees, in their resilience and longevity, give us solace. They stand proud and upright, with a supple strength allowing them to survive storm winds.
During this cultural shutdown, some of the best shows for ages are in London at the moment, all closed due to social distancing.
I was lucky enough to see Among the Trees at the Hayward before it shut, and it was wonderful.
Here are some of the works from the show, together with some others I’ve added – by Charles Burchfield, Paul Klee, and one of my own.

'Among the Trees' at the Hayward Gallery, with Giuseppe Penone's tree
Eva Jospin, cardboard forest, Among the Trees exhibition. Click for a video walk-by
Peter Doig, 'Among the Trees' shut exhibition at the Hayward Gallery
Charles Burchfield, watercolour
Bishop's Tree, Rafael Klein, 2018-2020. 63cm X 63cm. Alkyd resin enamel on aluminium
Paul Klee, Tree

Watch a short video about the Among the Trees exhibition by Hayward Gallery director Ralph Rugoff here

Bishop's Tree, Rafael Klein, 2018-2020. 63cm X 63cm. Alkyd resin enamel on aluminium

Bishop’s Tree

In 2018, I had an exhibition of sculpture at Wells Cathedral in Somerset. I also presented my artists’ book at the Wells Literature Festival. This took place in the Bishop’s Palace. The formal gardens there had an American Black Walnut tree which was the inspiration for this painting, completed this year.


Bishop’s Tree, 2018-20, alkyd resin enamel on aluminium. 63cm X 63cm.

 

The Gardens

A simple tree, beside a private garden square in South London.
The juxtaposition of nature with a parked car, seemed incongruous, almost a metamorphosis.

Exhibited at GX Gallery ‘Seasons of the Sublime’ solo exhibition, 2007.


The Gardens, 2007, alkyd resin enamel on aluminium. 70cm X 60cm.

 

The Gardens, 2007, alkyd resin enamel on aluminium. 70cm X 60cm

The Seasons

Spring, summer, and winter. Three seasons of tall trees.
Exhibited at Rochester Cathedral and Wells Cathedral in 2017 as part of the Family Tree touring exhibition.


The Seasons, 2017, alkyd resin enamel on aluminium. Each painting 125cm X 40cm.