Winter Tree of Flowers

That moment of encountering something that seems impossible: our logic is fighting our senses and we are overwhelmed by disbelief. We go on to re-examine the situation, convinced that there is a way to straighten out the misperception. But, no. It is actually happening.

Being betrayed by a friend or a lover — a person you've been close to turns toxic or cuts you off without explanation. Someone you confided in is not who you thought they were. "Who are you and what did you do with my friend?"

Winter Tree of Flowers creates a moment of disbelief. Having a tree blossom overnight in February in Illinois is not a common occurrence. Also, this was a way for me to insert some drops of color into a cold, seasonally abandoned place: an artificial placeholder for what is sure to come.

I must admit that I have seen fruit trees blooming in Chicago in September, their leaves changing to fall colors at the same time. I kept thinking: it doesn't make any sense. But they were real, right in front of me. What can you do with that? 

The Winter Tree of Flowers is located in DeKalb, IL on campus of Northern Illinois University (as of February 19, 2013). To see it in person arrive to the Kishwaukee river bridge on Lucinda Ave (next to the Music Building) — there is street parking on the East side of the bridge. Start walking North, following the paved path along the river. After you pass the parking lot on your left, look out for the The Winter Tree of Flowers. Be brave. Be an explorer. I left candy there for you (I'm serious). 

The installation will stay up as long as is appropriate.