Tell The Trees (Listen to the Trees)- World Book Night 2025  

WBN United Artists invited responses to The Overstory by Richard Powers for an exhibition and mail art swap at Bower Ashton Library, Bristol, UK. We received 200+ works by artists from countries around the world including Australia, Austria, Belarus, Brazil, Canada, China, Cyprus, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, UK, USA.

Responses to the book developed our overarching theme – to look after our environment, listen to it and take care of it. Artists’ works have been created in praise of particular trees or forests and to campaigners and activists who work to protect them and engage others with caring for the environment. Many recalled their experiences of standing with trees and experiencing the peace of nature, being grateful for the restful space they provide.

The works are now on display in the main gallery space at Bower Ashton Library until 30th July 2025. Come along and visit in person or find out more about WBN 2025, the link to the online gallery, a short story by Nancy Campbell and a free download zine ‘Imagined (field notes)’ by Gracia & Louise on the exhibition page .

This exhibition is open to the public Monday – Friday 9am-5pm. No booking needed. The library is on the first floor of B block. Public parking on meters on main road or at Ashton Court. For more information on Bower Ashton Library, visitor access and campus map, see the library website.

Image: Detail World Book Night piece by Brian Norman.