Starting from old to new traditions a Christmas tree has been part of major society for decades. Each and every single family or corporation has had their own twist or vision of what a Christmas tree should depict. Traditionally speaking an evergreen such as a pine or spruce was to be cut down and brought in a home to be decorated with whichever items the owner should so choose. Retail establishments have grown from traditional colours of red, green, silver, and gold to have to have more unique and even perhaps media-conscious styles. From Disney to other characters in pop culture a Christmas tree can have many forms of decorations. Not only do polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or better known as artificial trees take form of a typical evergreen, but more and more have taken on very different forms and materials entirely. There are rot iron trees, wire trees embellished with sequins, reclaimed wood trees, and even papier mache trees!
Once a tree has been chosen, the most important thing is the decorations and lights which allow the tree its own form of grandness and beauty. For this 2013 Holiday Season I had the pleasure to work with my partner in creating a unique 'woodland' styled tree, which he named as an homage to cottage life in Canada. He was very keen this year on bringing the homey feel of a cottage environment into his condo in the city. Foregoing traditional colours of red and green we opted instead for shades of brown, cream, and light gold. We had the enjoyment of transforming everyday material into beautiful ornaments for a truly wholesome feeling of this themed tree. Potpourri, feathers and raffia are materials that were chosen in giving a sense of belonging with the rest of the room's environment. From glue-gun burned fingers, feathered fingers, and glittered clothing a tree came to life!
- Manny
