Designer Christmas Tree Honors Lives Lost During Pandemic

MIAMI - EntSun -- When New York Artist/Christmas Guru Byron Keith Byrd was commissioned to create a 10-foot-tall Christmas Tree for art collector Kevin Giguere last March, the artist had no idea the meaning the tree would take on.  With the pandemic raging globally, Byrd was inspired to create something of exceptional beauty that would honor the lives lost around the world.  As he began selecting lights, ribbons, and a variety of ornaments to bring his copper and magenta vision to life, he realized the impact each light could have on his creation.

For Byrd, "Although this tree was a commission, it took on deep, personal meaning.  While I am grateful to not have lost loved ones to the virus, I am acutely aware of the loss others are experiencing.  Amber is symbolic of courage: it is my intention that each amber light on this tree honors lives lost, while illuminating a path of forward hope and courage."

Byrd began by working with team member Michael Lowen, entwining the 3000 amber lights, offsetting his magenta signature "spill."  The spill flows vertically from top to bottom, continuing onto the marble floor.

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The pair continued by hand-tying hundreds of ribbons and bows using three and four-inch double faced satin in a plethora of pinks.   A smattering of rose-colored ornaments was integrated into the spill, along with vibrant butterflies and hummingbirds made from feathers.

To showcase each amber light, Byrd spray-painted the ornaments in varying shades of copper, coordinating these with crystal chandelier prisms tied with copper bows.  Natural red-tip golden pheasant feathers were added as the final touch.

After eight months of planning, the amber-lit tree took a full month to install. The three thousand amber lights will radiate hope into the New Year.

Byron Keith Byrd is the author of Rizzoli's bestselling book O Christmas Tree as well as co-author of The Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center.  He has been commissioned to create Christmas trees for Baccarat and Harry Winston among many others.

Byrd's art resides in numerous public and private collections.  For more information, visit  www.byronkeithbyrd.com .

Photography by Jared Allison, DronaFide Pilots

Contact:  EBJArts@gmail.com