Trees in Negative Sculpture

What secrets lie beneath the surface of art? Right here, at the Sheba Medical Center in Tel Hashomer, we find ourselves standing before Menashe Kadishman’s intriguing “Trees in Negative.” Crafted in 1993 from Cor-ten steel, this sculpture challenges our perception of art and nature. The artwork features two steel plates. One plate depicts a tree, its form meticulously cut out, leaving behind a void, a negative space. The other plate stands beside it, a solid silhouette of a tree. This juxtaposition of presence and absence, of positive and negative space, is a hallmark of Kadishman’s artistic style. “Trees in Negative” invites us to contemplate the duality of existence. The absent tree, defined by the space it no longer occupies, is as impactful as the solid form beside it. This echoes the cycle of life and decay, reminding us that even in absence, there is a lingering presence, a memory etched in the world around us. The choice of Cor-ten steel enhances this message. The material, known for its weathering properties, transforms over time, developing a rusty patina. This ever-changing surface speaks to the transient nature of life, mirroring the growth and decay we observe in the natural world. “Trees in Negative” is a poignant reflection on the cyclical nature of life and the enduring power of memory, leaving a lasting impression on all who encounter it.