Internationally renowned artist unveils sculpture at Chester Zoo

Chester Zoo reveals new 20ft-tall 

‘Celebration Tree’ sculpture

Zoo’s work to protect UK wildlife will be boosted by new art project

Striking stainless steel and bronze tree created by Artist Emma Rodgers, known for major public art sculptures including the ‘Cilla’ statue in Liverpool

Tree will ‘grow over time’ with leaves, bees, butterflies and birds to be added in celebration of life’s most meaningful moments while supporting UK conservation

Chester Zoo has unveiled a striking new sculpture - the Celebration Tree - created by internationally renowned artist Emma Rodgers.

Standing at 20-ft-tall (six metres), conservationists say the tree will celebrate life’s most meaningful moments while also raising vital funds for the zoo’s vital efforts to protect UK wildlife.

The sculpture is positioned outside the historic grade II listed pub, The Oakfield, located in the heart of the zoo - once home to some of its first animals.

The towering stainless steel and bronze structure is designed to grow over time as people add their own special individually engraved items. Bees, butterflies, leaves and peacock feathers can be added by supporters in honour of loved ones or special milestones, with each donation helping fund the zoo’s expanding UK conservation work.