Arboreal Care Ecologies: nature, practice, & architecture

Abstract

The roots of the tree protruded out of the sidewalk, a testament to nature's resilience against urban confines. In downtown Los Angeles, California, amidst cracked concrete and debris, this encounter interrupted my stroll, forcing me to navigate the unexpected obstacle. It reminded me of the careful dance in crowded streets, where human bodies and objects alike intertwine, avoiding collisions yet occasionally connecting in shared space.

This momentary precariousness with the tree on a summer day mirrors broader entanglements in life. ‘Arboreal Care Ecologies’ delves into these complexities, exploring relationships between humans, trees, architecture, and care. Through an ecological lens, it recognizes the interconnectedness of diverse domains, emphasizing the multiplicity of tree species and their metaphysical significance.

In this exploration, care transcends conventional notions, becoming a framework for understanding human-tree relationships. Chapter 1, "Rooting," uncovers the symbiotic collaboration in Meghalaya, India, where living root bridges embody reciprocal care between the Khasi tribe and the rubber fig tree.

Chapter 2, "Burying," shifts focus to Japan's jumokusō practice, revealing temporal dimensions of care for the deceased and their resting places under trees. Contrastingly, Chapter 3, "Felling," examines the exploitation of teak trees in Indonesia, exposing fractures in the reciprocity of care within forestry practices.

Through these chapters, ‘Arboreal Care Ecologies’ challenges anthropocentric perspectives, advocating for a deeper understanding of more-than-human worlds. It urges us to reconsider our relationship with nature, fostering care that transcends institutionalized forms and embraces interconnectedness in shaping spaces of friction and harmony alike.