BETHEL — Bethel Woods Center for the Arts is making the call for artists to put their bid in to preserve the felled Message Tree’s iconic life and meaning, which was felled in late September due to the tree’s deterioration and fall risk.

As part of the process in seeking out local woodworking artisans, Bethel Woods has released an RFP, or Request For Proposal, so interested creatives can pitch their ideas. All proposals must be submitted by December 31. Selected creatives will be notified January 31, 2025 with a deadline of June 30, 2025.

Local and regional artists are especially encouraged to apply, as are those who have a personal connection to the Woodstock community or the Message Tree itself.

The RFP goes on to state that “the pieces will be displayed at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts and may be used to further preserve and communicate the history of the Message Tree and the spirit of Woodstock.”

In addition to the creation of artistic works, Bethel Woods is taking steps to propagate saplings from the original tree.

The historic 60-foot tall red maple was known as the “Message Tree” because of its utilization as a literal pillar of communication for over half a million people in the summer of 1969 who attended the Original Woodstock Music and Art Festival. Much of what was communicated on the tree’s bark over 50 years ago, including maps, notes, reminders and messages of peace and love, remains on display at the Museum at Bethel Woods.

“Bethel Woods Center for the Arts is committed to building upon our rich history of peace and music by providing extraordinary experiences and access to the arts,” said Dr. Neal V. Hitch, Senior Curator, Museum at Bethel Woods. “This project is at the core of our mission, carrying on the legacy of the Message Tree by transforming its wood into works of art that will help future generations connect with Woodstock.”  

For more information on the RFP process and submission guidelines, visit the Bethel Woods website, www.bethelwoodscenter.org.