Arbor Alma (‘The Giving Tree’) is a four minute film that explores the possibility that identity can be formed out of dialogue between people and how they understand their environment, in particular the role of trees. The film encourages viewers to reflect on their own relationship with trees and through the use of interactive media share their own imagery and ideas.

The film includes a montage of images - photographs and footage of Canadian urban green spaces as well as display iconic forests and trees painted by the Group of Seven and Tom Thomson held in the McMichael Canadian Art Collection. The natural beauty of our urban trees and forests is highlighted in the movie. The footage, paintings and stills are accompanied by unique musical compositions and contemporary digital photography that are composed as “tree portraiture” and reflect on the importance of trees in their lives.