Paintings don’t necessarily grow on trees but those who find a Painting in a Tree may think otherwise. Since 2009, South Carolina Lowcountry artist West Fraser has placed seven paintings in various trees as part of his Painting in a Tree project for others to find and keep, but with strings attached. The finder needs to pay it forward by making a donation to a favorite charity or cause, such as making a donation to a school art’s program or local museum or maybe assist a struggling artist.
I hope that with my gift found, the discoverer will give as well, and perhaps encourage others to make random acts of giving and kindness. As a catalyst to perpetuate gift giving in the community I hope that my Painting in a Tree project can make a difference.
– Artist West Fraser, from a Nov. 28, 2011, press release announcing the most recent Painting in a Tree project
The most recent painting, shown here, was placed in a tree South of Broad in Historic Charleston, S.C., on Nov. 27 and according to the website, it was found three days later on Nov. 30.
For the past three years, paintings have also been hung and found in Bluffton, S.C.; Cumberland Island, Ga.; and Deer Isle, Stonington, Maine. Donations have been made to Wounded Warriors Foundation, Nova Scotia College of Art & Design, American and Canadian Cancer Society, Gibbes Museum, A Montessori School, and a Hospital in Maine.
This is a very cool way of giving back, don’t ya think?
Next time you’re out for a walk, don’t forget to admire the trees.
Image Sources: West Fraser Studio and Helena Fox Fine Art
