Crochet tree coming to Portland Building

Sketch of the Mother Tree Project. (Mother Tree Project blog)

As part of a rotating installation art program at The Portland Building downtown, a local artist will introduce a life-size paper dress called the Mother Tree next month.

Helen Hiebert will work two hours every weekday, from Feb. 16 to March 12, until the installation funded by the Regional Arts & Culture Council is finished.

And she is soliciting participants. For more information on how to contribute to the process, visit her Web site.

Hiebert’s description of the process:

Single strands of crocheted thread will extend from the chest; as they cascade to the floor they will turn into roots, symbolizing the mother as a provider and nurturer throughout human development. As the days progress, the strands will grow and blossom from the bosom and protrude into the space, filling it as a tree’s roots would fill the ground beneath it.

And never to miss an opportunity to post a Sesame St. video, here is Hiebert’s appearance on the iconic children’s program: