EAST PROVIDENCE — The East Providence Public Library seeks to commission a painting of the historic Copper Beech tree located on the Weaver Library grounds lawn off Grove Avenue just behind City Hall on Taunton Avenue.

This iconic but declining tree, in its final years, is significant for its size as well as its cultural and historical importance.

In 2021, the Weaver Copper Beech tree was recognized as one of the biggest trees of its kind on the Rhode Island Tree Council’s Helen Walker Raleigh Champion Tree registry. In honor of the legacy of the tree, the library is looking forward to a lasting image that is an heirloom to be kept on display at Weavewr forever.

All traditional painting media will be considered, i.e., oil paint, watercolor, and acrylic. All styles of painting will be considered. No photography or digital artwork.

Painting dimensions should be no larger than 42”x60”  and suit the area where it will be displayed. Works on art paper, board or canvas will be considered. An award of $2,000 prize will be presented to the selected artist.

Entries will be reviewed by committee.  Criteria for evaluation include strength of work, technical ability, and artist’s connection to the East Providence community.

The application period is April 6-May 5. The selected artist will receive 25% of the commission up front and 75% upon completion.

To extend the life of our elder tree for as long as possible, the city has taken measures to mitigate the negative impacts. Under the care of a professional arborist, it receives annual soil aeration, antifungal bark spray and has a custom-built fence for its protection.

Funding for this commission, including the framing costs, is generously provided by the Friends of the East Providence Public Library.

For more information and to apply visit  https://www.eastprovidencelibrary.org/copper-beech-tree.

All questions can be directed to Michelle Perry, Public Services Librarian, at mperry@eplib.org or 401-434-2453.