Thank a Tree

Thank a Tree is a creative eco-art workshop and discussion exploring observation, creativity, gratitude, and our relationship with the living world.

Led by artist, designer, gardener, and Green Religion founder John DeFaro, alongside environmental artist, science communicator, and Living Studio founder Lauren Reilly, this workshop brings the spirit of the canopy indoors through conversation, collage, and sculpture. The program begins with a brief presentation introducing Green Religion, Living Studio, the Thank a Tree project, and the idea of Climate AWEARness, followed by an open discussion where participants are invited to share observations, questions, memories, and personal connections to trees and nature.

Participants will then create small freestanding three-dimensional collage sculptures using printed imagery of trees and landscapes, repurposed papers, and an assortment of everyday found materials such as beads, ribbon, yarn, string, and other reclaimed elements. Through cutting, layering, bending, folding, and assembling, flat materials become sculptural forms that stand on their own, celebrating experimentation, imagination, and creative play. No artistic experience is necessary. Only curiosity and willingness to participate.

Guests are encouraged to explore COUNT IT ALL JOY!, the current exhibition at Green Space Miami curated by Donnamarie Baptiste and Arsimmer McCoy. The exhibition invites its own moments of curiosity and discovery, complementing the workshop’s spirit of observation, conversation, and creative participation.