New Exhibit “Treasured Trees” Celebrates Coast Redwoods
Santa Cruz, CA — The Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History is proud to announce the opening of its newest exhibit, Treasured Trees: The Story of Coast Redwoods, developed with support from California’s first land trust Sempervirens Fund during their 125th year of stewardship.
Opening June 14th, this immersive exhibit delves into the rich natural history of California’s coast redwoods, revered ancient giants with a uniquely local story. Treasured Trees highlights redwoods’ vital role in supporting diverse ecosystems and celebrates their enduring importance through time, from the ancient past to an uncertain future in the face of climate change.
Featuring stunning artwork by renowned scientific illustrator and founder of Ink Dwell Studios, Jane Kim, along with historic artifacts, natural specimens, and interactive, hands-on experiences, Treasured Trees offers a dynamic and engaging journey into the heart of the redwood forest.
“We’re excited to collaborate with Sempervirens Fund and display Jane Kim’s science illustrations,” said Felicia Van Stolk, Executive Director of the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History. “Treasured Trees is more than a natural history exhibit — it’s a celebration of our region’s identity, and a call to action to understand and appreciate the world’s greatest living treasures.”
The exhibit showcases:
- Archival materials and historic photos documenting early redwood conservation efforts
- Stories of stewardship and cultural reverence for the redwoods
- Scientific illustrations from Ink Dwell Studio’s Jane Kim
- Artifacts and multimedia from Sempervirens Fund’s century-long legacy of redwood protection
“Coast redwoods not only inspired a conservation movement 125 year ago,” said Sara Barth, Sempervirens Fund Executive Director. “We also continue to learn so much about their incredible natural superpowers. We are proud to support this special exhibit exploring the lives of one of the most iconic trees on the planet.”
Treasured Trees will be on view at the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History through November 16. Special programs and guided tours will accompany the exhibit throughout its run.
About our Partner Sempervirens Fund
Sempervirens Fund is California’s first land trust, protecting and restoring redwood forests in the Santa Cruz Mountains since 1900. The organization works to safeguard the redwoods and the biodiversity they support for the benefit of all.
