Internationally renowned artist unveils sculpture at Chester Zoo

Chester Zoo has unveiled a striking new sculpture - the Celebration Tree - created by internationally renowned artist Emma Rodgers.

Standing at 20-ft-tall (six metres), conservationists say the tree will celebrate life’s most meaningful moments while also raising vital funds for the zoo’s vital efforts to protect UK wildlife.

The sculpture is positioned outside the historic grade II listed pub, The Oakfield, located in the heart of the zoo - once home to some of its first animals.

The towering stainless steel and bronze structure is designed to grow over time as people add their own special individually engraved items. Bees, butterflies, leaves and peacock feathers can be added by supporters in honour of loved ones or special milestones, with each donation helping fund the zoo’s expanding UK conservation work.

Artist Emma Rodgers, known for several major public art sculptures including the Cilla Black statue in Liverpool, and her work with Marvel Studios to design and produce sculptures for the sets of Guardians of The Galaxy and Avengers Age of Ultron, said:

“I’ve been visiting Chester Zoo since childhood and have a deep connection with this special place. Indeed, it was right here that my lifelong love of animals first began. To have the opportunity to create the Celebration Tree has therefore been a real honour; it’s both a work of art and a symbol of hope wildlife in the UK.

“Each element added to the tree, whether it’s a butterfly, leaf, bee or feather, will represent a story, a memory or a legacy of someone special. As the tree grows and evolves over time, it mirrors the zoo’s growing conservation efforts.”

Jamie Christon, Chester Zoo’s CEO, added:

“Emma has been a good friend to the zoo over a number of years and her creation of the Celebration Tree is a stunning addition - the first of what we hope will many projects we embark on together in the years ahead

“The tree is more than a sculpture and its true power lies in the meaning behind it. It’s a way for people to connect personally with our conservation zoo’s mission to help wildlife to thrive.

“By donating, supporters are not only leaving a meaningful mark on the tree itself, but also on the future of British wildlife. The funds raised will help us to plant thousands of trees, revive habitats across the North West and create new sanctuaries for species that need our help more than ever.”

The Celebration Tree initiative invites supporters to donate from £250 to more than £10,000, with their personalised engraved piece becoming a lasting part of the sculpture.

To learn more or to donate, visit:

www.chesterzoo.org/celebrationtree

Pictured - The 20ft tall Celebration Tree is carefully placed in the heart of Chester Zoo.