Jonn Cherico

Ten years ago, a huge, beautiful tree in our yard suddenly fell. It had been my older brother’s favorite tree to climb, and seeing it down brought my mom to tears. While the tree was being cut up, I noticed a shape in what was left and asked if we could stop and turn part of it into art instead. That moment became the beginning of the Austin Spider Tree. What started as a Halloween spider quickly grew into something our family and neighbors looked forward to, as I transformed it again and again for different holidays and local moments. Over time, it became a true neighborhood landmark. My family has lived in this house for over 65 years, and my father built it, so this project carries a lot of family history and heart for me. Now, I’m asking for help to turn this beloved tree into a permanent art installation, not just preserve what is left of it. I want to create a one-of-a-kind sculpture made from hundreds, maybe thousands, of everyday objects contributed by neighbors, friends, and anyone who wants to be part of it. Once everything is attached and painted a single color, the objects will become almost hidden inside the whole, creating a surprising visual effect that reveals itself the longer you look. The first $1,400 will go specifically toward paint, ground treatment, and installation help so I can safely begin building the permanent version. Additional donations will help cover materials, contributed-object preparation, signage, tools, and unexpected needs along the way. If you love Austin’s creative spirit, I’d be grateful for your support. You can help by donating or by contributing small objects, toys, gadgets, hardware, or other odd little treasures that can become part of the sculpture. Every gift, every object, and every share helps transform something my neighborhood already knows and loves into a lasting art installation.