Vivienne Pecka

The tree is a plant that most of us have seen on a daily basis. They are everywhere. We line our cities with them; acres of land are covered with them. These highly adaptable plants have grown in all sorts of environments from the lush tropical rainforests to the barren tundra. They bring shade and clean air. Cities use them to make lush green spaces full amongst grey concrete. 

The symbolism of community can be found in many things such as the honeycomb, but I have found that one common symbol is the tree. It represents connection, growth, and support as each branch of a tree extends and interconnect, a community is made up of diverse individuals who work together and support one another. Also, the trunk reflects unity and stability, the core of any strong community. Trees are also a plant found all over the world in all shapes and sizes and uses throughout history. providing shelter and nourishment to various forms of life, symbolizing the care and mutual support within a community. With each new member the tree grows and changes, becoming something new. I was also inspired by Kintsugi where broken pottery is not discarded but repaired and transformed into something new and uniquely beautiful because of its struggle. Community is similar to this practice as it brings everyone, no matter their past or imperfections, together as an important part of the whole. It reflects how each member is an individual with talents and ideas they bring to the community as they come together to support each other through struggles and challenges, growing stronger and more connected through shared experiences.