A STADIUM FOR THE TREES

A STADIUM FOR THE TREES

SEPTEMBER 18, 2019

The drawing depicts a common modern scenario, a vast urban stadium – architecture densely packed with spectators. But instead of an athletic event, the stadium looks onto a grove of trees, planted in the center of the field. The wooded area is a direct juxtaposition to the teaming skyline behind it, visible just above the rim of the stadium. Skyscrapers, cranes, and billowing smoke render the cityscape as a dynamic engine of growth and development. By contrast, the forest is still, even contemplative.

From now until the 27th of October in Klagenfurt, Austria, you can witness this drawing brought to life. Installed in Wörthersee Stadion, three hundred trees have been planted on the pitch of the stadium, a direct manifestation of Max Peintner’s dystopic image. The project, conceived by contemporary Austrian curator, Klaus Littmann is the largest and most complex public art installation in Austria to date.

Many of the species of trees chosen to be planted, including silver birch, alder, aspen, white willow, hornbeam, field maple, and common oak are currently subject to population decline due to deforestation and climate change. After the installation, the trees will be relocated and replanted nearby the stadium, beginning a second life as a “living sculpture.”

Landscape architects, Enea Landscape Architecture, is responsible for the design concept for the trees currently installed in the stadium, and the design of the permanent forest.