London has its very own Wish Tree, near a place where people inspiring for great things and adds some rural folklore to an urban setting.
The New Cross Wish Tree, located by Goldsmiths University in South East London, appeared in March of 2014 and has since become a part of the neighbourhood with additions being added by secret wishes with a desire or hope for something to happen.
A wish tree is an individual tree, usually distinguished by species, position or appearance, which is used as an object of wishes and offerings. Such trees are identified as possessing a special religious or spiritual value. By tradition, believers make votive offerings in order to gain from that nature spirit, saint or goddess fulfilment of a wish.
I asked Martin Hasani, who created the Wish Tree, why and what inspired him. “It’s to bring some rural folklore into urban settings,” Martin says, “and the colours represent something different to everyone. I chose the location because its inner city and next to the centre of learning.”
The New Cross Wish Tree is also featured in Wikipedia Wish Tree and has its very own Facebook Page – New Cross Wish Tree.
New Cross’ piece of rural folklore in the heart of London, come add your ribbons, old or new cloth, trinkets, amulets, statues, candles and make a wish!
It is an inspiring idea and one that brings hope, and possibly some belief that there is something greater that does make those special things we wish for come true.
