Steel sculpture, Giusseppe Lund, Town Square, Slough, 1999
The Bird Tree was commissioned by Hammersons plc to commemorate the redevelopment of the Queensmere shopping Centre. The life-sized tree of birds is a celebration of growth and represents the variety of different cultures living together in a community.
Giuseppe ran workshops where local people had the chance to design a bird for the tree. Over 200 designs were received and some children had the chance to make their birds. There was also an opportunity for local people to meet the artist and colour some of the birds at an exhibition and workshop in the Queensmere Shopping Centre.
The life-sized tree of birds is forged in stainless steel and stands eight metres high. The tree has now become a familiar landmark of the town, is well photographed and is also a popular meeting place.