Not only do we love Icon Poly because of the quality of forms they are producing for our public art project, but also because they are proving to be fantastic collaborators throughout this process. They have put together a list of suggestions for artists to explain some of the best ways to work with the urethane material. It also lists the appropriate adhesives and clear coats to use to make sure an artist's final tree will stand the test of time - and the Nebraska weather! Download the suggestions for artists. Artists are also welcome to contact Kyle or Danielle at Icon Poly via phone at (308) 468-9411 or email with questions. Small samples of the fiber enforced urethane material are available, and they'd love for you to visit their shop if you happen to be in the Gibbon area - just call ahead!

The full-scale stylized tree design created for An Enchanted Arboretum is made of a combination of urethane with a fiber reinforcement.  Each tree measures 6' in height and 5' in width and weighs about 125 pounds. The tree will be initially attached to a temporary square wooden base for stability purposes and ultimately connected to a concrete base for final installation.

A panel of non-committee affiliated distinguished jurors will be selected by the Enchanted Arboretum committee to select the 21 winning maquettes. Each selected artist will receive a stipend to assist with costs associated to producing the final piece. Artists will also receive 40% of the final auction price of their full-size tree.

The photos below are of the half size model carved by Icon Poly from standard styrofoam. The material that the final trees will be cast in has a very smooth surface (unlike the styrofoam) and will come pre-primed. The material is easy to work with (sanding, drilling, adhesion), has little to no odor, is healthier to work with than fiberglass, and is incredibly strong.