Japanese tree spirits find home in 'unique' forest

Sculptor Ed Elliott has created the Japanese inspired woodland spirits

More than 100 never-seen-before art pieces will be displayed in a "unique" Gloucestershire forest.

World-renowned sculptor Ed Elliott will display the tree spirits, inspired by Japanese folklore, in the Forest of Dean's Puzzlewood.

The installation will be open to the public between 5 June and 7 July.

Mr Elliott, from Malvern in Worcestershire, said: "Puzzlewood is one of the most unique and inspiring forests in the country."

The exhibition is about Kodama, which are believed to be nature spirits residing in trees.

As one of the few temperate rainforests in the UK, Puzzlewood’s “magical landscapes” were seen as the perfect background for Mr Elliott's artwork.

"I’m very excited to announce my latest sculpture project, guaranteed to be a unique experience and will no doubt be lots of fun for visitors," he said.

Mr Elliott said the artwork is 'light-hearted and playful'

Mr Elliot insisted that knowledge of Japanese folklore was not needed to enjoy the installation.

“This is an artwork that’s kind of light-hearted and playful," he added.

"So, it doesn’t matter if you know nothing about it or the history or the depth of what’s influenced it.

"It’s going to be fun either way.”

Organisers said the installation will have an extra sensory experience by being in Puzzlewood.

Mr Elliott's work has been widely displayed across the UK after he chose a full-time career in sculpting in 2010.