Why This Museum in London Is Hanging its Christmas Tree Upside Down
With Thanksgiving in the rear-view, London's Tate Britain is kicking off the holiday season by displaying a traditional Christmas tree-in a rather untraditional way.
The upside-down decoration, which hangs from the ceiling and features gilded roots is a work by Iranian-born sculptor Shirazeh Houshiary. Aptly titled Christmas Tree, it's reminiscent of a piece the designer made for the museum more than 20 years ago.
"I would like us to contemplate that the pine tree is one of the oldest species and recognize the roots are the source of its continued stability, nourishment and longevity," said the artist in a press release from the museum. "As the roots remain hidden, it is best to seek what is hidden rather than what is apparent. As a Buddhist monk wrote, 'An old pine tree preaches wisdom.'"
The piece, which visitors can view from several vantage points, also serves to rekindle the institution's annual Christmas tree tradition. Every year from 1988 to 2013, the Tate commissioned a seasonal tree installation, but it fell by the wayside during the museum's renovations.
'We are delighted to show Shirazeh Houshiary's Christmas tree this year, alongside fellow prominent international UK-based artists in the Duveen Galleries. This unveiling marks a pivotal moment for the festive season at Tate Britain by looking to the past in order to look to the future," said Alex Darquharson, director of Tate Britain.
"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, and signals the beginning of an exciting era of annual Christmas artist commissions at Tate Britain."
For more information on the Tate, including how to visit, head to tate.org.uk.
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