Marisa Benjamim

On February 24, 2022, was witnessed the felling of a tree that had gracefully reached the end of its life cycle. This particular tree, a black alder, once stood proudly on the north side of Branitz Castle, and had become a cherished part of the landscape. It is estimated that this ancient tree has witnessed some 160 years of history, having been planted around 1860 during Pueckler’s lifetime. Its presence has left a profound legacy intricately woven into the history of the castle.

In response to this event, Marisa Benjamim created a site-specific sculpture, a tribute to the fallen tree. At the same time, it is in dialogue with the place where it grew and the tree nurseries (Baumuniversität ) that surround it. The artist brings together a mix of materials that seamlessly fuses the remnants of the past with elements from the present. The trunk of the black alder, bricks found in recent excavations, tree roots and living plants come together to create an ephemeral memorial. This artwork places special emphasis on the materials sourced from the very site, accentuating the historical and contemporary importance of the tree’s demise. And It serves as a powerful reminder, urging us to reflect upon the intrinsic value of nature and the interwoven tapestry of our collective past, present, and the fragile ecosystems that envelop us.