Make Your Own Xmas

Each year, the Tate Britain selects an artist to create a Christmas tree for the gallery. Multimedia artists Bob and Roberta Smithcreated this years tree called ‘Make Your Own Xmas’. The tree is a spirited, thought-provoking response to the season of contemplation, celebration, and consumerism. Its overt humor and ramshackle aesthetic promote a variety of interpretations, evoking memories of hand-made Christmas decorations, as well as highlighting global concerns over energy production and waste. The artist aims to introduce an energetic, hands-on approach to art by getting the public actively involved in his work.

The wooden structure of the tree is made of recycled and reclaimed materials including sandwich board and an oil drum. Eight different bicycles are fixed in stands around the base, each holding a generator that is connected to a set of lights on the tree. Visitors are encouraged to help bring the tree to life by providing the pedal-power to illuminate the tree.

Measuring 36 feet, this year’s tree is the tallest in the program’s twenty-one year history. It will be on display in the Rotunda through January 4th.

Source PSFK