Tree of Life, Environmental sculpture in Disney's Animal Kingdom, Florida
The Tree of Life is a monumental sculpture at the center of Disney's Animal Kingdom in Orlando, serving as the park's symbol for all living creatures. Its surface displays carved representations of mammals, reptiles, birds, and insects that wrap around the entire artificial trunk and branches.
The structure was completed in 1998 after eighteen months of construction and opened alongside the Animal Kingdom theme park. Its fabrication took place at a facility in Houston before being transported to Florida for assembly.
The sculpture includes a carving of David Graybeard chimpanzee, recognized by primatologist Jane Goodall who supported its incorporation into the design.
Inside the tree there is a theater where visitors can experience a three-dimensional film presentation. Access is through the trunk area, where waiting zones are arranged before entry.
After dark, projection mapping shows transform the surface and bring the carved animals to life through animated light sequences. These nighttime presentations appear at intervals and offer a different perspective on the sculpture than during daylight.
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