This graphite drawing of the Angel Oak captures the grandeur and quiet dignity of one of the oldest living trees in America. Located just outside Charleston, South Carolina, the Angel Oak is estimated to be at least 400–500 years old, its sweeping limbs spanning nearly 200 feet. In my rendering, I focus on the intricate texture of its bark and the dramatic reach of its branches, emphasizing both its resilience and its grace.

Part of my ongoing Ancient Trees series, this piece reflects my fascination with living witnesses to history—trees whose roots anchor them to place and whose crowns stretch toward the infinite. Through layers of graphite, I aim to evoke the Angel Oak’s endurance and its sense of sanctuary, inviting viewers to pause and consider the deep time and quiet strength embodied in this remarkable tree.