Gróðursetning is a living sculpture, the final form of which is decided by the conditions which allow trees to grow, or not. In this iteration, it will be accompanied by a short lecture, on the topic of vegetation in Iceland.
“Rótarskot” or seedlings are taken from places where they would not otherwise thrive or grow into full sized trees, and are planted in a tight, pre-decided formation with specially designed shelters around them. Usually about 20-40 trees, depending on availability of specimens, are used over a space of about 20 sqm. Icelandic native trees are used, primarily rowan and birch, though there is also the possibility of wooly and tealeaf willow to
be included. These varieties generally share space together in naturally formed Icelandic forests and will live well in this environment. The idea of this method and manner of planting reflects the practice of “miyawaki” or Japanese micro-forests, a means of tree planting which seeks to imitate the way forests form naturally.

The work has been set up in two places in Iceland, and also in New Zealand. Firstly as a sketch/experiment in Takaka, in the South Island of New Zealand. Finally as a fully formed work, in Þórshöfn á Langanesi as part of the Röstin Artist Residency, and Austur Meðalholt in South Iceland as part of the annual performance art festival Magn Tímafars/The power of Passage.

The work is thought of as a way to open conversations about vegetation in Iceland, but also an attempt to engage with but also relinquish control over the natural environment.