Beuys' Acorns, 2007

Ackroyd & Harvey combine art and activism to address the climate and ecological crisis. The oak trees are living sculptures planted in a circle of seven, one of many circles being planted across public spaces in partnership with cultural centres.

Beuys’ Acorns was initiated in 2007 when Ackroyd & Harvey germinated hundreds of acorns collected from the environmental artwork 7000 Oaks: City Forestation Instead of City Administration by artist Joseph Beuys.

Between 1982 and 1987, Beuys planted 7,000 trees with help from volunteers in Kassel, Germany. He chose oak for its longevity and connections with ancient Celtic folklore. Beuys believed art could be used to inspire social and political change. Seeing 7000 Oaks as ‘only a symbolic beginning’ he hoped it would encourage people to plant trees across the world. His aim was to raise ecological awareness, aid mental wellbeing and improve the environment.

Designed to evolve and continuously benefit the local ecosystem for generations to come, Beuys’ Acorns creates a natural canopy for creative exploration and for people to meet and exchange ideas.