Totally+Terrific+Treehouses


 * __Tyler Arboretum is seeking creative geniuses for an exciting and exclusive exhibit:__** **//__Totally Terrific Treehouses__//**

Tyler Arboretum, one of the oldest and largest arboreta in the northeastern United States, is seeking talented artists, architects, builders, companies, and institutions to participate in an exciting and exclusive exhibit featured for the very first time in our area.

//Totally Terrific Treehouses// will grace Tyler’s grounds from May 31, 2008 through September 28, 2008, and is expected to dazzle and draw thousands of visitors from the greater Philadelphia region and beyond. Tyler is currently seeking participants and exhibitors for this project, who are willing to take on the challenge and set the sky as the only limit to their imaginations.

//Totally Terrific Treehouses// is an inspiring interactive exhibit of uniquely designed tree houses, created by some of the brightest minds and constructed by some of the best builders in the area. Exceptionally popular at other gardens around the country, this special event encourages exhibitors to create and build a structure that showcases their talents and invites children of all ages to join in the spirit of play while offering inspiration and appreciation for the invaluable role that trees play on our planet.

The Arboretum encourages artisans to think broadly in conceiving a design. Traditional, whimsical, surreal, funny, mysterious, and interactive are all acceptable approaches for creations that will capture the imagination and create a sense of magic that compliment Nature’s beauty. Most importantly; any construction methods used must cause no harm to the tree. Structures may be at ground level or on platforms around or below the trees, allowing visitors of all abilities the opportunity to access the display.

This is a juried exhibit and tree houses will be judged in a variety of categories such as: most creative, best craftsmanship, most environmentally-friendly, most whimsical, and most educational. A special People’s Choice award will be tallied from visitors’ votes and publicly announced at the end of the exhibit.

An important value-added aspect of this competition, in addition to excellent exposure and brand-name recognition for companies, institutions, and individuals participating in //Totally Terrific Treehouses//, is that exhibitors will also be providing important educational programming to countless area children and adults regarding the vital role trees play in enhancing the lives of people and wildlife.

Educational brochures, signs, and programs created by Tyler will interpret and explain each exhibitor’s creation to visitors. These thoughtfully designed and comprehensive informational resources will also teach children and homeowners essential concepts about ecology, imparting important environmental messages about how they can make a difference in their own communities.

There are two categories of exhibits: //Designers// and //Treetop Sponsors//. The Designer category for this //juried competition// is open to any designer, architect, builder, artist, or educational/arts organization. Designers may apply for a stipend of up to $2,500 to assist in the construction, fabrication, and installation of their exhibits.

Treetop Sponsors are awarded building rights for one tree house, with no financial underwriting from Tyler. However, these sponsors will receive a number of other rights and benefits. Exhibit submission for both categories will be approved by the Arboretum.

Tyler has already received numerous inquiries regarding this exciting endeavor and one builder – the renowned Williamson School of Free Trade – has already signed on to participate in the exhibit. A number of other companies and organizations are also currently being considered. A maximum of only fifteen entries will be accepted for this exclusive exhibit. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind, artistic, architectural, and environmental event!

//Totally Terrific Treehouses// is a tremendous opportunity to support the environment, provide a valuable service to the community, and display your creativity and talents. For detailed information, design guidelines, and an application for this remarkable exhibit, please visit Tyler Arboretum’s website at: [|www.tylerarboretum.org]. For additional assistance, or a list of individuals and companies participating in this exhibit, contact Ashley B. Harwi, Tyler’s Special Events Coordinator, at 610-566-9134, ext. 210; or via e-mail at: aharwi@tylerarboretum.org