Hartford, CT - August 12, 2024 | Art of Tao LaBossiere is honored to announce the unveiling of the White Oak Leaf Throne, a monumental work of interactive public art created from the remains of the historic Hoadley Oak tree, a direct descendant of the legendary Charter Oak. The unveiling event, hosted by the Bushnell Park Conservancy, will take place on Tuesday, August 20, at 5:30 pm on the east side of Bushnell Park, where the sculpture stands as a tribute to Hartford's rich history and the enduring power of nature.

Renowned Hartford artist Tao LaBossiere conceptualized and brought to life this breathtaking piece. The White Oak Leaf Throne stands approximately 9.5 feet tall and 4 feet wide, transforming the dead trunk of the once majestic Hoadley Oak into a whimsical, functional throne that invites visitors to connect with nature and the city’s heritage.

“This project has been a journey of honoring the past while creating something that will inspire future generations,” said Tao LaBossiere. “The White Oak Leaf Throne is the realization of my vision to repurpose a once-mighty tree into a work of art that continues to live on in our community.”

Project & Creative Team:
Lead Artist/Concept Creator: Tao LaBossiere
Art & Project Manager: Amy LaBossiere
Chainsaw/Collaborator: Adam Mulholland, Sickline Carving
Park Management: Nyesha McCauley
Art Assistants: Amy LaBossiere, Ron Bell, Antonio Almedina

Three years ago, the LaBossieres approached the Bushnell Park Conservancy with the concept of transforming felled trees into meaningful public art. The White Oak Leaf Throne is the first realization of this vision under the "Art in the Park" initiative through the collaboration of the Conservancy, the community, and Tao's artistic vision.

This project was made possible through the generous support of 82 individual community donors, with additional funding from Sustainable CT's Community Match Fund, the Greater Hartford Arts Council, the Tremaine Foundation, the Edward C. & Ann T. Roberts Foundation, and Assistant Majority Leader Marilyn Rosetti.

Art of Tao LaBossiere invites the community to celebrate the unveiling of the White Oak Leaf Throne, a project proudly hosted by the Bushnell Park Conservancy. The event will take place on Tuesday, August 20, at 5:30 p.m. on the east side of Bushnell Park.

About Art of Tao LaBossiere Art of Tao LaBossiere is an artistic partnership founded by Tao and Amy LaBossiere, specializing in sculpture, murals, and illustration. Tao's work is characterized by illustrative whimsy and a deep love of children's books, infusing his creations with thoughtful kindness and an imaginative spirit. Tao and Amy create public art that inspires individuals, sparks creativity, and encourages introspection. Their work transforms spaces into places of wonder and reflection, inviting people to engage with art in a meaningful and personal way. Visit artoftaolabossiere.com.

Featured image(s) one taken by friend Corey Pane with Baby Daisy; other photo by Amy LaBossiere