Exploring Witness Trees: Art Meets Science at the Botanic Garden
On 6 March 2026, the Plant Climate Lab hosted a Witness Tree Walk & Talk at the Trinity College Botanic Garden for artists from The Black Church Print Studio. The event brought together art and science through a shared exploration of trees as living witnesses to environmental change.
The afternoon began with an introduction to the Witness Tree project, outlining its scientific and cultural significance. Participants were then divided into four groups, each led by a member of our team – Prof. Jennifer McElwain, Michelle Murray, Leticia Candido, and Richard Slevin. As they moved through the garden, the artists were introduced to a range of witness tree species, learning about their ecological histories and the stories they hold within their growth.
Following the walk, the group gathered for coffee and conversation. This informal session provided an opportunity to examine plant specimens and leaf microphotography, as well as engage in a lively Q&A and discussion around themes of climate change, memory, and representation. These exchanges created a space for dialogue between scientific research and artistic practice.
The participating artists will now develop a series of print works inspired by their interpretations of the Witness Tree project, extending the conversation beyond the garden and into new creative forms.
This event highlighted the value of interdisciplinary collaboration, fostering fresh perspectives on environmental change and deepening public engagement with plant science.
