Caroline County, MD – Queen Anne’s County artist Vicco von Voss has been awarded a $10,000 planning grant from the Maryland State Arts Council to develop Woodhenge, a new interactive public art installation at Adkins Arboretum in Caroline County, Maryland. This unique installation will blend art, nature, and community, offering a space for reflection, education, and engagement for both local residents and visitors.
The Woodhenge installation will feature six slabs crafted from a lightning-struck tree, symbolizing themes of transformation, resilience, and the natural cycles of life. Drawing inspiration from ancient henges such as Stonehenge, Woodhenge will serve as both a cultural landmark and an interactive space that invites public participation.
The project will kick off with a community-driven planning phase, ensuring that the installation aligns with the values and aspirations of the people it is intended to serve. A series of community engagement activities—including surveys, mobile exhibitions, and visioning workshops—will give local residents the opportunity to provide input on how they would like to engage with the installation. This feedback will directly inform the design and programming of the project.
“We want Woodhenge to be more than just an art piece,” said Vicco von Voss. “It’s about creating a space where people can connect with nature, reflect on the world around them, and see themselves as part of the community that created it.”
Project Goals
The Woodhenge planning phase aims to gather public input and finalize the design for the installation. Key goals include:
• Engaging local residents and visitors through community surveys and workshops
• Finalizing design plans and integrating public feedback into the installation’s development
• Laying the foundation for future project funding and long-term sustainability
Adkins Arboretum, the Caroline County Arts Council, and other community partners will play a key role in this process, ensuring broad community involvement.
How You Can Get Involved
The public is invited to participate in the planning process through a community survey and visioning workshops. These activities will gather feedback on how the community wants to interact with Woodhenge, shaping its educational programs and future events. More information on the survey and upcoming workshops will be available on Adkins Arboretum’s website and social media pages.
For more information on the project and how to get involved, please contact: vicco@viccovonvoss.com
About Adkins Arboretum
Adkins Arboretum is a 400-acre native garden and preserve in Caroline County, Maryland, dedicated to education and the appreciation of the natural world. It attracts thousands of visitors each year and serves as a center for environmental education and community engagement.
