OneOak Blenheim Exhibition – 25th July to 4th October
The OneOak Exhibition, telling the full life story of one oak tree, will be on display in the Pleasure Gardens at Blenheim Palace between 25th July to 4th October.
In January 2010 a 222 year old oak tree, growing in woodland on the Blenheim Palace Estate, was felled for its timber. It was donated to the Sylva Foundation by the Palace as the focus for an education project, aiming to bring people closer to the growing of trees for wood.
The OneOak tree is now one of the most scientifically studied trees in Britain. It has also inspired artists, craftspeople, film makers and musicians. Its timber is being used to make a huge array of wooden products: beams in buildings, the hull of a ship and fine furniture, plus everyday items and energy to heat homes. The legendary chef Raymond Blanc has used oak wood chippings from the tree to smoke salmon at Le Manoir aux Quat’saisons.
A year after the OneOak tree felling 250 local school children, all of whom had witnessed its death, returned to the woodland to each plant an oak tree to create a new oak forest.
During 2010 and 2011 a series of exhibitions and events, telling the stories behind the project, has attracted thousands of visitors. In a final major touring exhibition during 2012, items made from OneOak tree’s seasoned wood by some of Britain’s best furniture makers, joiners, artists and craftspeople, are being displayed in a unique collection.
Blenheim Palace - visitor information
Visitors will also see drawings, prints and photographs, together with information and films about the tree’s history and the people involved, who have all come together to show why growing trees for wood is vitally important for humans and beneficial for the environment.
