Want To Hug A Tree? Louvre Abu Dhabi Will Let You Spread The Love This Month


Hug a tree at Louvre Abu Dhabi

Hug a tree? Did you know that hugging trees is actually good for your health?

According to Matthew Silverstone, author of the book Blinded by Science, studies suggest that hugging a tree increases levels of hormone oxytocin.

This hormone emits a feeling of calm and emotional bonding. Experts have agreed that trees provide health benefits for mental and emotional illnesses.

But before you start wrapping your arms on random trees in sight, you might want to check out an upcoming art installation at Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Singing Trees will happen on 25th February in partnership with Théâtre du Châtelet and London-based digital artists Umberllium.

This special event aims to highlight the issue of climate change through music, technology and interactive elements.

The outdoor area in front of the museum will be activated, with the palm trees lining the walkway to Louvre Abu Dhabi fitted with non-invasive belts that will enable the trees to sing in unison as a choir and react as visitors move closer.

The belts are designed with rechargeable, renewable batteries to embody the eco-friendly theme of the installation.

Guests are encouraged to hug the trees to maximise the music’s volume playing in Arabic, French and English.

It’s worth noting that Louvre Abu Dhabi will serve as the event’s premiere before moving to other countries including the Olympic Games in Paris in 2024.

“Singing Trees speaks to Louvre Abu Dhabi’s mission to provide an educational and innovative space where visitors can engage in dialogues around the issues that affect us all,” said Manuel Rabaté, director of Louvre Abu Dhabi.

“Timed to coincide with UAE Innovation Month, the piece explores how technological advances can bring us closer to nature and heighten our understanding of the environment.

“We are grateful to our partners Théâtre du Châtelet and Bloomberg Philanthropies who made this project possible and look forward to seeing Singing Trees travel the world.”

AED 63 (adults), AED 31.50 (ages 13-22), free under 13 years old. Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island. Visit: louvreabudhabi.ae


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