Amidst the tall buildings of this rapidly transforming neighbourhood, Evor has planted a majestic 20-metre-tall tree.
This metasequoia – also known as a “dawn redwood” – is a rare deciduous conifer: after a flamboyant parade of golden yellows, oranges and copper reds in autumn, it loses all its leaves in winter, only to return to its vibrant green tones in the spring.
Just like in past village squares, where a tree would act as a central, protective figure storing the secrets of several generations, this tree is surrounded by a massive ring – a psellion, i.e., an ancient cuff bracelet – that both protects it and confirms its presence as a treasure that must be defended. At its centre, farfugia, horsetail, and other rushes colonize the space around the base of the tree. Between artefact and natural phenomenon, this work can be seen as a “sensorial refuge” where locals and visitors can enjoy a modest resurgence of nature and discover a new view of the city.
Evor was born in 1975 in Nantes. He works and lives in Nantes.
Une œuvre Art et Territoire. Avec le soutien de : Groupe Duval, Icade, Marignan, Groupe Chessé, Air France.
From the same artist
Nantes is transforming
Nantes has been getting a major makeover since 2024.
The city is currently undergoing extensive public works, particularly around Île de Nantes (Quai de la Fosse and the Pont Anne-de-Bretagne bridge). Tram Line 1 will be temporarily suspended from mid-June to late August 2026. The city centre and Parc des Chantiers – Machines de l’Île will remain accessible, thanks to replacement buses and to the pedestrian and cycling routes that will continue to be open. Park-and-ride facilities are available to drivers.
For further information
Boulevard de la Prairie au duc 44000 NANTES
How to get there?
Parking(s) nearby: Parking Les Nefs, Parking Les Machines
Public transport: Prairie au Duc, Quai des Antilles, Hangar à Bananes, Gare Maritime
Self-service bicycles: Grue Jaune (n°103), Machine De L'île (n°43), Antilles (n°104)
Visual artwork.
