"Garden Wood 1.0" is a project that reintegrates a cut branch from an Elderberry tree back into the garden. Although the branch was removed due to a neighbor’s complaint, the tree remains alive, albeit a lot smaller. To honor the tree’s presence, I transformed the cut-off branch into a sculpture that serves as an insect hotel for wild bees and butterfly feeder, reflecting the tree’s original role as a hub for insects and butterflies during summer. The nectar of the old larger tree served as a vital food source for butterflies, drawing them to the tree and supporting their lifecycle. This project aims to preserve the spirit and function of the Elderberry. Further, the sculpture is intended as an aesthetic contribution that enhances the garden's appeal.
The feeders can be used with or without the cover, depending on whether it's intended to feed insects other than butterflies that cannot access the fruit with the cover on.
Elderberry wood is hard and durable. The piece was cut from the tree about 10 years ago and has been outside ever since.
Natural-colored beeswax sheets were shaped and stenciled to create the feeders. To save material, the resin was poured over the feeders in multiple cycles, with each new layer added after the previous one had dried.
A total of 39 holes, ranging from 6 to 3 mm in diameter, were drilled. Along with the drilled holes, the 8 natural branch holes were sanded smooth. The holes were thoroughly smoothed to prevent the wild bees from injuring their wings.
2024 - Garden Wood 1.0