London's Tate Britain has celebrated the start of the festive
season by hanging a Christmas tree upside down from its
ceiling.
Created by artist Shirazeh Houshiary, the Christmas tree was
unveiled today inside the gallery's Millbank building. It
reimagines a similar piece she created for Tate over 20
yristmasears ago.
The work focuses on the pine tree's natural qualities –
such as its texture, colour, smell and shape – while also
highlighting its roots in gold leaf.
"I would like us to contemplate that the pine tree is one of the
oldest species and recognise the roots are the source of its
continued stability, nourishment and longevity," said the Iranian
artist.
"As the roots remain hidden, it is best to seek what is hidden
rather than what is apparent."
Tate formerly commissioned a contemporary artist to design its
Christmas Tree every year since 1988 but paused the tradition when
it commenced curuso 45 million renovation. Houshiary's tree is the
first commission since.
It is suspended down the centre of the spiral staircase added by
the Sterling Prize winning firm and reaches down towards the
underground public spaces.
This placement allows viewers different views from each of the
three gallery levels – the tip of the tree from the lower floor,
the main body from the ground, and the golden roots from the upper
floor.
Tate Britain director Alex Farquharson said the unveiling marked
a "pivotal moment" for the gallery.
"This tree fits the new space perfectly, allowing a different
generation to experience the majesty of Houshiary's work in the
striking setting of the new entrance and staircase," said
Farquharson.
Elsewhere in London, Apple's Jonathan Ive and industrial
designer Marc Newson have installed their own Christmas tree – an
immersive "experience" in the lobby of Claridge's hotel.