World Tree Story & Selwood Forest – history & legends of our ancient trees

Where was Selwood Forest and what relation did it have to Frome’s landscape and rich history? Julian Hight will present an illustrated talk to try and answer those questions in connection with the ‘Arborealists and Guests’ exhibition at Black Swan Arts this month.
The talk will start with some of the world’s most majestic trees, their history and legend, and ancient trees of note in the Selwood Forest area.
Following the success of his first book Britain’s Tree Story for the National Trust in 2011, Julian set out to capture 100 ancient, historic trees from 39 countries around the globe, sourcing subjects from archive engravings and photographs, and re-photographing them for historic context.
The result was World Tree Story, Julian’s second book, celebrating some of the world’s oldest, largest and most famous trees (and sometimes not so famous), while also telling the human tale, and ultimately calling for their preservation.
Closer to home, Julian has recorded the oldest trees in the Selwood Forest area, gathering acorns from its ancient oaks – living links to the ancient forest – to replant as part of the ‘Reviving Selwood Forest’ project.
Julian’s interest in trees started at a young age – growing up next to woodland which had a profound effect on him. He travels widely, camera in hand, to document historic ancient trees, presenting regular talks on the subject, including an appearance on Channel 4’s Tree of the Year TV programme. Chair of Wessex Ancient Tree Forum, ancient tree verifier for Woodland Trust’s ATI, Julian also campaigns to save threatened trees and ancient woodland.
The event takes place on Thursday 16th August at Black Swan Arts at 7.00pm. Tickets are £7.50, available from Black Swan Arts or online at Eventbrite. Further details at: www.worldtree story.co.uk