Trunk Calls

Think “museum” and images of climatecontrolled environs housing delicate antiques come to mind. But on 7.5ha of woodland on the banks of Upper Lake Zurich, an unexpected, hardier type of exhibition has taken root. Opened last year, the Tree Museum welcomes visitors not with the traditional musky whiff, but with a breath of fresh air.

Some 50 trees from 25 varieties are showcased in “rooms”, which are entirely open to the elements.In autumn, the red Japanese Maples become aflame with colour. Come spring, the Saucer Magnolias intoxicate with fragrant pinkish-white blossoms. The collection is the brainchild of one Enzo Enea. 

The Swiss landscape architect spent 17 years building this curation and the result is a public outlet for quiet contemplation. With several examples more than a century old, each is an artwork sculpted with sophisticated techniques, influenced by the ancient art of Bonsai shaping.

In his own unorthodox way, Enea hopes that his trees will enlighten visitors with a heightened awareness of time, and thus develop respect and admiration for nature and the environment. The unconvinced should still pay a visit, for this is certainly one museum that will grow on you.

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