Nurture Group Partners with King’s Cross to Unveil Winter Wonderland

Nurture Group has been at work at King’s Cross transforming Granary Square into a magical winter wonderland with its latest annual art installation, Fleeting Forest. The collaborative effort between Turner Prize-winning collective Assemble, Local Works Studio, Studio Dekka, Aswarm, Webb Yates, and Central Saint Martins brings to life a unique and sustainable festive experience.

The installation, set to enchant visitors until February 2024, is a departure from the traditional evergreen tree, opting instead for 36 living trees that capture the essence of the winter woodland. Nursery-grown trees, pine and birch saplings from Ashdown Forest, and various plant species create a human-scale square within a square. The structure, framed by straw bale walls and chestnut fencing, comes alive at night with warm lighting and subtle colours, casting a breathtaking scene against the surrounding buildings.

At the heart of Fleeting Forest is a commitment to positive community and environmental impact. The project repurposes “wonky” or damaged nursery trees and incorporates saplings and ground cover plants from habitat creation works in Ashdown Forest. The raised planters, made from light-touch natural materials, not only support the trees but also capture carbon as they grow, aligning with sustainability goals.

Upon the conclusion of the installation in February 2024, the specimen trees will find a permanent home in Bramcote Park, contributing to the park’s regeneration efforts led by Assemble and Local Works in partnership with Southwark Council and the local community. The remaining plants will be distributed to community gardens and schools around King’s Cross.

Photo credits: Photography by John Sturrock.