# Engaging Secret Tree Messages The NYC Parks Department Collaborates with Artist Katie Holten By Kalin Ned | Published 2019-03-13 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tree-messages References: [fastcompany](https://www.fastcompany.com/90318150/nyc-is-using-this-typeface-made-of-trees-to-plant-secret-messages-in-parks?partner=feedburner&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=feedburner+fastcompany&utm_content=feedburner) & [katieholten](https://www.katieholten.com/) Artist Katie Holten became known for her mysterious tree messages back in 2015 when she developed a 'Tree Alphabet' and used it to write a book. Now, however, the creative is taking her concept to new heights thanks to a collaboration with the NYC Parks Department. The project involves giving a physical, real-world extension of Holten's secret tree messages. The artist developed a whole new alphabet and is working with the city to [plant real trees](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/match-masters) in a predetermined order that makes sense with regards to the creative's alphabet. Through this project, Katie Holten is able to "provide a tool that people can use to interact with [public space](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/paul-anthony-smith) in a whole new way." The project is not only extremely playful and beneficial to the overall state of NYC parks, but it also raises awareness to some degree about the [importance of trees](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/urban-green). ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.5/10 - Popularity: 78% | Activity: 50% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Gen Alpha, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Tree Alphabet Messaging:** This trend involves using a custom alphabet to communicate secret messages through trees, creating an innovative form of interactive public art. - **Collaborative Art Projects:** This trend showcases the opportunities for artists to collaborate with government organizations to transform urban spaces and engage the public in a unique and playful way. - **Environmental Awareness Through Art:** This trend highlights the intersection between art and environmental activism, using creative installations to raise awareness about the importance of trees and natural spaces. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Public Art:** This industry can leverage the trend of tree alphabet messaging to create interactive installations that enhance public spaces. - **Urban Planning:** This industry can explore collaborative art projects like the one with the NYC Parks Department to introduce creativity and engagement into urban environments. - **Environmental Conservation:** This industry can use art interventions, such as Katie Holten's tree messages, to increase community awareness and understanding of environmental issues. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Nature-Inspired Installations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/humannature-1.md) - [Science-Backed Wooden Installations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/seed-stories.md) - [Nature-Connecting Design Installations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vert-installation.md) - [Digital City-Inspired Art Works](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/grand-central-station.md) - [Basketball-Inspired Public Art Installations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cj-hendry1.md) - [Urban Text Installations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/peace-love-joy.md) - [Interactive Typo Art Installations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/loveegolov.md) - [Contemporary Permanent Art Displays](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hoops-tree.md) - [Artful Elevated Timber Treehouses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/secret-camp.md)