Tree of Life Sculpture

The Tree of Life is one of Rike Park's most unusual sculptures. The nine-meter metal tree appeared here in 2016 for the Tbilisoba festival. It was created by Georgian artist and theater decorator Davit Monavarlisashvili. Thanks to its unique design, the art object quickly became one of the park's most recognizable attractions and a popular photo spot.

The sculpture is crafted entirely of metal and composed of myriad details that can be examined for a long time. In place of ordinary leaves, the crown conceals silhouettes of vintage Tbilisi houses with carved balconies, birds, street lamps, staircases, samovars, and other objects tied to the city's history. The artist assembled many elements by hand using antique metal parts and household artifacts. In this way, the Tree of Life became a unique monument to old Tbilisi and its centuries-old history.

Vintage cast-iron doors from stoves and fireplaces are built into the tree trunk. They can be opened to leave a coin or a note with a wish inside. That is why many residents and tourists call the sculpture the "tree of wishes." Nearby is an unusual wrought-iron bench on wheels, beside which sits a small metal dog in a cap. According to local tradition, people rub its nose for good luck, so it gleams noticeably. In the evening, backlighting turns on inside the tree, and the entire composition transforms into one of the most unusual art objects in Rike Park.