Every year the planet loses some 32 million acres of old-growth forests—trees that help to sustain life by transforming carbon dioxide into oxygen. The Blue Trees is a socially-driven art action created and conceived by Australian artist Konstantin Dimopoulos to inspire awareness and conversation about global deforestation.

Through my work, I am striving to address global issues and provide a visual platform to effect change. –Konstantin Dimopoulos

The first installation of The Blue Trees launched at the 2011 Vancouver Biennale and in 2012 an installation in King County extended and reinterpreted that original project, temporarily transforming 16 existing Honey Locust trees in Seattle’s Westlake Park and 40 newly planted Jacquemontii Birch trees along the Burke-Gilman Trail in Kenmore. Dimopoulos worked with volunteers to color the trees a striking ultramarine blue using environmentally safe, water-based pigment; then the trees gradually reverted back to their natural state.

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Color is a powerful stimulant. It can alter perception and define space and time. In nature, it is used both as a means of protection and as a mechanism to attract. By applying a color not typically associated with trees, The Blue Trees drew attention in an effort to promote action.

Born in Egypt and based in Melbourne, Australia, Dimopoulos graduated from university in New Zealand with a degree in sociology and psychology, and later studied art in London. He describes himself as a humanist, using his art practice—from studio works to site-specific installations—to address social and environmental issues.

The Blue Trees was commissioned by 4Culture, King County Parks, the City of Seattle’s Office of Arts & Culture, and Seattle Parks and Recreation.