World Forestry Center Presents Tree People | Spotlighting the Sacred Connection Between People & Trees

From our sponsors:
Tree People
June 1-September 29, 2024
Wednesdays – Sundays | 11AM-4PM
Museum Admission $5-$8
More info: worldforestry.org

World Forestry Center’s Discovery Museum
4033 SW Canyon Rd, Portland, OR

From an almost forgotten treasure of beliefs and traditions, World Forestry Center and Finnish photographers Ritva Kovalainen and Sanni Seppo present an exhibition rich in stories that illuminate the sacred connection between people and trees. This exhibition runs June 1 – September 29, 2024.

A photographed journey through time and place, this exhibition is underpinned with forest-based tradition, myths, and folklore that were once central to people’s lives in rural areas of Finland, Estonia, and East Karelia.

The artists spent ten years traveling in search of people and trees that continue to hold insignia depicting these customs. “At first glance, we are presented with stunning images of trees and people standing beside them. Somehow, through the stillness of each photograph, time and custom are captured in a way that show movement – perhaps the rekindling of forest spirits and the people who cherished them.” said Stephanie Stewart Bailey, Experience Developer at World Forestry Center.

Stories and quotes partnered with the photographs provide an opportunity for the viewer to go deeper into the history, culture, and personal connection to individual trees and marked sacred forests.

“Spending more time with a single photograph, we realize that it’s accompanying story utterly transforms our first impression – elevating us to wonder and almost jealousy for its particular social practice and relationship,” said Stewart Bailey.

World Forestry Center seeks to amplify the voices of community members who are deepening their understanding of the interrelationship between forests and society. We are excited to feature an exhibit that highlights the longstanding cultural tradition of trees, places, and people.

On view on the second floor of World Forestry Center’s Discovery Museum in Portland’s Washington Park, the exhibition is included with museum attendance.

Museum Admission