The iconic Lalbagh Botanical Garden in Bengaluru is witnessing a beautiful transformation where tragedy meets creativity. The garden's fallen trees, once silent giants, are being reborn as stunning pieces of living art through a dedicated wood carving workshop.
From Fallen Giants to Artistic Masterpieces
The initiative, now in its second edition, is a direct response to the loss of several grand old trees within the garden's premises. Instead of letting the wood decay or be removed, the authorities have chosen to give it a second, artistic life. The workshop, which began recently, is a 15-day intensive program designed to blend environmental consciousness with artistic expression.
A Gathering of Masters and Students
At the heart of this creative resurgence are 48 expert artisans who have been invited from various districts across the region. Their mission is twofold: to carve the wood themselves and, more importantly, to impart their skills to the next generation. The workshop is actively teaching the intricate craft of wood carving to students of visual arts and other disciplines, making it a unique interdisciplinary educational experience.
The event, documented on Friday, 2nd January 2026, showcases a hive of activity where the sound of chisels replaces the rustle of leaves. The experts work alongside students, guiding their hands to transform rough logs and stumps into sculptures that will permanently adorn the garden's landscape. This project ensures that the memory of Lalbagh's botanical elders lives on in a new, captivating form.
Impact and Legacy of the Workshop
The consequences of this workshop extend beyond creating mere art installations. It establishes a powerful model for urban environmental conservation and creative recycling. By converting fallen trees into art, the project reduces waste and adds immense cultural value to the city's premier green space. For the students, it is an unparalleled opportunity to learn a traditional craft directly from masters, bridging the gap between academic knowledge and hands-on skill.
Ultimately, the Lalbagh wood carving workshop is more than an art class; it is a statement. It demonstrates how cities can thoughtfully manage natural loss by fostering creativity, preserving heritage crafts, and enhancing public spaces with meaningful art that tells a story of resilience and renewal.
