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Tree mural reflects relationships with nature

Johnny Rutherford
BBC News, South West
BBC Joe Webster stood to the right of the large mural on the side of the building. He is wearing a pink hooded jumper, and is looking down at the camera while smiling. In the background is the blue and yellow tree with graffitied words amongst the foliage. BBC
Artist Joe Webster says the mural of the historic tree is the largest piece of artwork he has done

A mural of a historic tree has been unveiled by its artist in Newton Abbot.

Joe Webster said it was the largest piece of work he had completed and invited local people to add words and phrases to the mural to reflect their thoughts and feelings towards nature.

Mr Webster said the 16m (52ft) artwork, in Golden Lion Square, was inspired by an ancient oak tree that was felled more than 100 years ago on Queen Street to make way for the war memorial.

He said: "Records in the museum say there was a public uproar about the loss of this iconic veteran tree at the time."

A large mural of a painted tree on the side of a building in Newton Abbot. The tree has yellow and gold leaves coming off the branches, and the background has light and dark tones of blue. There are people stood around it, including people wearing yellow hi-vis.
Joe Webster says the community tree project was funded and supported by local groups in Newton Abbot

"We have bought that tree back into the town and I have painted everyone's words onto the wall amongst the foliage to represent everyone's thoughts, their relationships, and their connections to nature," said Mr Webster.

"I fancied having a go at doing a really big painting.

"Prior to this, I have only done small canvas, so this is my first large-scale piece of work."

Ron Atkinson stood on the left wearing a dark blue jacket with a yellow hi-vis over the top. He is smiling at the camera and is stood in front of the large mural. Behind him is other people stood in front of the artwork.
Ron Atkinson, known as Rocket Ron, says people of all ages from the community are happy with the mural

The community tree project was funded and supported by local groups such as Teignbridge Council and the Newton Abbot Rotary Club.

Oldest member of the rotary club, 95-year-old Ron Atkinson, known as Rocket Ron, said all ages of the community in Newton Abbot were "happy" with the piece.

He said: "It brings hope back to Newton Abbot, nature is life really.

"It is a lovely idea."

MP Martin Wrigley added: "This mural shows the power of art and creativity in bringing people together.

"It's a visual reminder of how connected we are to each other, and to nature. It's also a lasting legacy for future generations in Newton Abbot."

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