Forest Spirit
2024|Bastrop,TX,USAStatus: Project
Credits: Competition Organizer: Volume Zero
Design: Unearthed Practice
Forest Spirit: Guardian of ancient wood,
in fallen needle and shadow stood.
Among the trees, the Spirit’s cloak,
swell forth its snout a cloud of smoke.
Protecting tree and flower fine,
from ashen fields regrow lost pine.
Located in Texas’ Bastrop State Park—the site of a 32,000-acre wildfire in 2011—the Forest Spirit stands near the Lost Pines hiking trail on the edge of the main burn path, overseeing the regrowth of the pine forest. Embodying aspects of dragons, insects, beasts, and reptiles, it is a chimera, a creature suspended between myth and reality. The Spirit prowls cautiously: its long legs careful not to damage the trees it protects; tail swishing in the wind, curling around a sturdy pine to form a stair and bridge entry; and smoke billowing from its nostrils, sourced from an internal fireplace. The 300-square-foot tree house serves a dual purpose: functioning as a lookout station to monitor for future fires and provide space for a new artist residency program. Echoing similar programs hosted by the U.S. National Park Services, artist and designer couples can apply for a four-week residency to stay in the Forest Spirit and create works inspired by the park’s natural beauty.