The artist Caroline West has found a unique way to honour the Sycamore Gap tree, a cherished British landmark.
After the iconic tree was felled last year, she started painting it on used teabags, capturing various seasons and scenes.
A Creative Homage
Caroline West, 50, from Waterlooville, Hampshire, has taken a creative approach to commemorate the Sycamore Gap tree. She paints the tree in different settings using a rather unconventional canvas: used teabags. This effort began roughly two to three months ago, demonstrating her dedication to preserving the memory of this iconic landmark.
The Sycamore Gap tree was cut down overnight between September 27 and 28 last year, a loss that sparked widespread grief and outrage across the nation. It was a senseless act that left many, including West, devastated.
In her tributes, she captures the tree in various seasons, at night, and against the backdrop of a sunset sky, thus highlighting the tree’s beauty through different atmospheres.
The Art Process
West begins her art by carefully drying out used teabags, cutting them up, scraping out all the tea, and ironing them flat. She tapes the edges, places the teabags on backing paper, applies a base layer, and finally uses acrylic paint to create the scenes.
Her favourite among the miniature works is the autumn scene. ‘I love nature and my artwork has always been inspired by nature. Trees are amazing; they all have stories to tell,’ she explained.
‘Painting British landmarks was something I started a while ago, and the Sycamore Gap tree really stood out during my research,’ West added.
Artistic Inspiration
West’s passion for nature and British landmarks has driven her to create these unique pieces. She has been painting landmarks on teabags since August 2023, including well-known sites such as Stonehenge and Tower Bridge.
‘It’s incredible how much these paintings mean to people,’ said West. ‘When you paint British landmarks, it evokes memories and emotions.’
One of her teabags, featuring Durdle Door, was particularly significant for a buyer who proposed to his future wife there. It’s a touching example of how art can preserve personal memories.
Challenges of the Medium
Despite the sentimental value, painting on teabags is not without its challenges. West described the process as fiddly, requiring a small brush and a lot of patience.
Each piece involves a lot of squinting and meticulous attention to detail, but the uniqueness of the medium makes the effort worthwhile.
‘I could paint endless scenes of these landmarks because there are so many beautiful perspectives to capture,’ she noted.
Public Reception and Impact
Since showcasing her work, West has received significant interest and positive feedback. The intricate details and nostalgic value of her paintings resonate deeply with viewers.
Her works have not only commemorated the Sycamore Gap tree but also highlighted the importance of preserving memories through art. Each teabag painting is more than just art; it’s a tribute to Britain’s natural and historical heritage.
Through her unique approach, West has effectively turned a simple object like a used teabag into a canvas that tells a story, keeping the memory of the Sycamore Gap tree alive.
Future Endeavours
Encouraged by the response, West plans to continue painting British landmarks on teabags. She sees endless possibilities in capturing the country’s rich landscapes and historic sites.
‘This project has given me a new perspective on how art can be both personal and universally relatable,’ she remarked.
Her work is a testament to her love for nature and history, and she hopes to inspire others to find beauty in the everyday objects around them.
Caroline West’s unique tribute to the Sycamore Gap tree through her teabag paintings showcases her deep appreciation for nature and British landmarks.
Her detailed and painstakingly created artworks offer a beautiful and sentimental way to remember and honour a beloved tree and other iconic sites.
