Charles Gaines Maps the Meanings of Ancient Baobab Trees in Meticulous Charts
Briefly

Charles Gaines, an influential figure in the Conceptual Art movement, has been graphing trees since the 1970s to dissect the relationship between perception and meaning. His latest series, 'Numbers and Trees: The Tanzania Baobabs,' combines the imagery of revered baobab trees with numbered grids, depicting their cultural significance and ecological importance. The works emphasize how personal experience informs interpretation, especially amid the backdrop of colonial histories and climate change, highlighting the multifaceted nature of these iconic trees in African culture.
A leader in the Conceptual Art movement, Gaines' works ask viewers to explore the relationships between what something appears to be and what it means.
The baobab is known as 'the tree of life' for its longevity, myriad roles in preserving the savanna ecosystem, and ability to host entire habitats.
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