2015 Bee Metropolis Willow Project

Bee Metropolis and Lone Bee sculpture with willow artist Caroline Lowe

The Bee Metropolis was created to highlight the importance of bees to the environment and the threats they currently face from pesticide use and loss of habitat.

It was made from the wood of three beech trees which had been felled in the gardens. The trees were cut into sections which were then drilled with hundreds of holes in order to encourage solitary or lone bees and other insects. The surrounding area was planted with wild flowers to provide nectar rich plants for insects.

The Metropolis features a willow sculpture of a Wood Carder Bee which was created by local artist Caroline Lowe.