
Andy Goldsworthy’s installation Tree Fall (2013) presents visitors with a potent reminder of the relationship between the Presidio’s natural and built environments. Like Goldsworthy’s earlier Spire (2008) and Wood Line (2011), Tree Fall is constructed from a tree removed as part of the Presidio’s park management efforts; in this case, a eucalyptus felled for the Presidio Parkway project has been combined with clay derived from surrounding land. Installed inside the historic Powder Magazine on the Presidio’s Main Post, Tree Fall provides an unexpected perspective on the Presidio and its forest, bringing elements of the outdoors in and making visible what might otherwise be hidden underground.
Creating this imposing installation within the Powder Magazine, an historic landmark–designated building originally used to store munitions, posed unique challenges. In order not to compromise the building’s structure and historical fabric, FOR-SITE worked with structural engineers and fabricators to build an architectural substructure on which Tree Fall was installed. The installation was completed with the help of more than 40 community volunteers.
- Video: Tree Fall
- Installation ViewsAndy Goldsworthy, Tree Fall, 2013 (installation view); photo: Jan StürmannAndy Goldsworthy, Tree Fall, 2013 (installation view); photo: Jan StürmannAndy Goldsworthy, Tree Fall, 2013 (installation view); photo: Jan StürmannAndy Goldsworthy, Tree Fall, 2013 (installation view); photo: Jan StürmannAndy Goldsworthy, Tree Fall, 2013 (installation view); photo: Jan Stürmann
- Behind the ScenesAndy Goldsworthy installing Tree Fall; photo: Jan StürmannHolly Goldsworthy processing clay for Tree Fall installation; photo: Jan StürmannAndy Goldsworthy installing Tree Fall; photo: Jan StürmannJoseph Meade processing clay for Tree Fall installation; photo: Jan Stürmann
Andy Goldsworthy creates ephemeral sculptures and permanent installations using natural materials such as stones, clay, and leaves to draw out the inherent character of a site. His works have been exhibited and collected by important international institutions, including Storm King Art Center, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, and the Tate.