By Bernheim
Bernheim Unveils “Heart of the Forest”
A Towering Tin Man with a Message of Transformation
New sculpture connects art, nature, and emotional renewal
Bernheim Forest and Arboretum proudly introduces its latest and most towering artistic addition: Heart of the Forest, a 27-foot-tall Tin Man sculpture by nationally renowned metal sculptor Bill Secunda. Now standing tall at the Jackson-Yoe trailhead, this stunning figure invites guests of all ages to reflect on their connection to the natural world and to experience Bernheim’s 16,324 acres of wild beauty through a new lens.
More than just an eye-catching installation, Heart of the Forest is a powerful symbol of transformation. Rooted in the familiar story of the Tin Man, a character who believed he lacked a heart but proved otherwise through acts of empathy. The sculpture reminds us to take heart and to lead with emotional intelligence and compassion in our care of nature.
“This piece invites wonder, reflection, and joy,” said Bernheim President and CEO Dr. Mark K. Wourms. “The Tin Man’s journey from disconnection to heartfelt awareness mirrors our evolving relationship with forests; from a resource to be used, to a living system that sustains and inspires us.”
Standing watch over newly planted wildflowers that feed bees and butterflies, restored wetlands that support frogs and dragonflies, and wooded hollows where bobcats and golden eagles still find refuge, Bernheim’s Tin Man is more than a work of art. He’s a symbol of what’s possible when people choose care over exploitation as his axe is no longer for cutting trees, but for cutting ties with harmful habits to our environment.
“The Tin Man is already stealing hearts out here,” said Jenny Zeller, Curator of Arts in Nature. “He’s big, bold, and full of story! Heart of the Forest is the perfect way to invite guests into Bernheim’s natural areas where the work is sited amongst beautifully mature trees in a landscape that’s been carefully enhanced for both ecological health and an inclusive, accessible guest experience.”
Bill Secunda is an award-winning sculptor based in Pennsylvania, renowned for his monumental, lifelike metal creations. Using materials such as steel, copper, bronze, and even humble carpenter’s nails, he crafts bold, expressive forms that command attention. Secunda has been a three-time Top Ten finalist at ArtPrize in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and has twice earned Best in Show honors at Disney’s prestigious Festival of the Masters. His work has been exhibited at major institutions including the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, the St. Louis Zoo, Disney’s Epcot, and Ripley’s Believe It or Not museums around the world.
Follow, follow, follow the road to Jackson-Yoe, a journey that leads one to vibrant ecosystems, quiet revelations, and a heart restored through the experience of the Tin Man! Heart of the Forest is now part of Bernheim’s permanent art collection and can be viewed daily from 7 a.m. until one hour before the forest closes.
Learn more about this new artwork at bernheim.org/tin-man
