Seasonal Oak
a ‘Living’ tribute to organ donation at Airedale Hospital
WHY THE MIGHTY OAK?
Enter a realm where the ancient 'Tree of Life' takes on a distinctly British twist – the "Seasonal Oak." This artwork breathes life into the timeless symbolism of immortality and renewal. Nestled within the heart of Airedale Hospital, our oak tree embodies the spirit of organ donation, a gift that truly gives life.
THE CYCLE OF LIFE
Over time the artwork will evolve. Bright autumnal leaves, in shades of red, orange, brown, and yellow, will gradually make way for fresh green leaves. Each green leaf bears a local donor's name, symbolising renewal and the gift of life through organ and tissue donation.
EXPERTLY CRAFTED
Designed for longevity with high quality materials, the artwork promises to captivate for years to come. The base panel, constructed from aluminium composite bonded to resilient polycarbonate, serves as the canvas for a breath-taking display. Delicate clouds, intricate branches, and an insightful explanation come to life on this foundation. The "Gift of Life" text and nearly 180 autumnal oak leaves are permanently fixed to this panel to allow them to stand off and cast subtle shadows.
UNVEILING EVENT
On Thursday 21st September 2023, during National Organ Donation Week, there was an official unveiling event at Airedale Hospital. The heartfelt ceremony was led by the Airedale Chaplaincy, Liz and the dedicated Specialist Organ Donation Nurses. We joined the event and assisted 8 organ donor families, who each affixed a new green leaf with their loved ones’ name onto the artwork.
Feedback:
“It was a tremendous privilege for us to attend the art installation at Airedale. To be present with other families who have experienced similar bereavement and the process of organ donation gave us a feeling of collective pride. It was incredibly emotional to hear Felix’s name read out and add the green leaf that held his name to the memorial. For Felix to be remembered for his gift of life on a permanent memorial is something very precious.”
Alison Salisbury, mother of Felix, who passed away earlier this year and went on to donate his organs
“As we will see when we visit the beautiful installation on the landing, the design includes both autumn leaves and new green leaves. Uniquely, on our tree, both new green leaves and autumn leaves grow and stay alongside each other… Autumn colours celebrate life lived and enjoyed… The bright new green leaves that we will attach to our tree will remind us of your loved ones and honour their gifts. It will act as a lasting memorial to them and to the way their lives and death made a difference. The greenness of their leaves expresses the way they live on in those whose lives they have transformed.”
Reverend Liz Maitland, Chaplain at Airedale Hospital
“The team at Hospital Art Studio have been brilliant in guiding us through our journey to design a lasting memorial for our organ donors and their families and we are absolutely delighted with the final result. It was a huge privilege to be able to invite families to attend the opening of this beautiful seasonal oak memorial and for them to add the green leaves with their loved one’s names on. It was clear to see the sense of pride this gave them, and we hope it will encourage others to join the organ Donor register.”
Rachel Wiseman, Specialist Nurse - Organ Donation