Data Analysis: The Memory Tree at the
Climate Conversations Art Experience
Summary of responses by Maura Bosbyshell
A key part of the Climate Conversations art experience is the Memory Tree. We ask participants questions such as those below, and they hang their response on the Memory Tree.
- Do you have a favorite tree or tree memory from your child hood?
- When was the last time you climbed a tree?
- How has climate change impacted your life?
We’ve collected nearly 200 responses at past Climate Conversations events. We estimate the age range of responders to be children as young as 4 or 5, to adults in their eighties. Trees most commonly mentioned trees are weeping willow, magnolia, and apple tree, as well as cherry, pine, pecan, maple, and mango. The most common location of responders’ favorite tree or tree memory are childhood home, grandparent's home, neighbor's yard, at school, or in a playground or park. Several specific streets and neighborhoods in Charlotte are mentioned. In addition, responses reference the following cities and states:
- Athens, GA
- Carolina Avenue in Roanoke, VA
- Colorado
- Decatur, GA
- Detroit
- Longfellow Park in Cambridge. MA
- Louisville, KY
- Madison, WS
- Maine
- Ocracoke Island, NC
- Palo Alto, CA
- Sequoia National Park
- VT farmhouse
- Hawaii
The following locales outside the US are mentioned:
- Jamaica
- Japan
- Kenya
- Morocco
- Trinidad
Many responses describe at least one activity involving trees. Categories of primary activities or functions include:
- Trees for climbing/recreation 77
- Trees for soul-building 28
- Food/shelter/benefits provided by trees 20
- Care of trees 18
- Miscellaneous 3
5-11-22 (includes fall, 2021 event at McColl Center and
Earth Day 2022)
