Tree of Science, Modern sculpture at Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey
The Tree of Science is located at the A1 entrance of METU campus and features abstract metallic branches extending upward from a solid base. The branching structure creates a vertical form that resembles a stylized tree with multiple ascending elements.
The sculpture was created in 1966 by sculptor Tamer Başoğlu and architect Ersen Gürsel as a result of a competition for an Atatürk Memorial at the university. It reflects a time when METU was establishing its artistic identity through public monuments.
The sculpture serves as a gathering spot for students and visitors who pass through the campus daily. It has become part of how people experience and remember the university grounds.
The work is located near Eskişehir Road and is accessible by public transportation. It serves as an easy-to-find landmark for visitors navigating the campus.
A replica of this sculpture stands at METU's Northern Cyprus Campus, and its design motif was incorporated into the METU Metro Station in Ankara. This wide presence shows how central the form has become to the institution's identity.
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