The tallest tree in Wales, a majestic Douglas Fir, stood proudly at Lake Vyrnwy until it was severely damaged by a storm.

Initially, plans were made to cut down the tree for safety reasons. However, chainsaw artist Simon O’Rourke saw an opportunity to transform the tree into a lasting piece of art.

Instead of removing the tree entirely, O’Rourke carved a stunning sculpture known as “The Giant Hand of Vyrnwy.” This artwork symbolizes the tree’s final attempt to reach for the sky.

Using his own hand as a model, O’Rourke meticulously carved the top of the 50-foot stump, creating a giant hand that appears to be stretching upwards.

The project took about a week to complete, with scaffolding erected around the tree to facilitate the intricate work.
The result is a breathtaking tribute to the once-tallest tree in Wales, turning a potential loss into a symbol of resilience and creativity.

Image credit: Simon O’Rourke (simonorourketreecarving on Facebook)
Text credit: Earth Unreal