Mystree stands at the entrance to Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden in Singapore Botanic Gardens. The sculpture looks like a tree from a distance. Up close, its branches resolve into more than 500 small human figures arranged by artist Zadok Ben-David.
From Botanic Gardens MRT, take Exit A to Bukit Timah Gate and follow the signs for the Children’s Garden. NParks gives the garden’s address as 1H Cluny Road. Start with the sculpture at the entrance, then use the garden map if you are continuing inside.
- Location Entrance to Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden.
- Artist Zadok Ben-David.
- Material Weathering steel, which develops a rust-coloured surface.
How to find the sculpture from the MRT
Set your destination to Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden. NParks estimates about a 10-minute walk from Botanic Gardens MRT Exit A. Look for the tree-shaped work as you approach the entrance. If your group is arriving separately, share the garden name and the sculpture name as the meeting point.
Look at the tree twice
Take a few steps back to see the outline, then move closer to spot the individual people. Ask a child to choose a branch and find three different poses. The garden uses the sculpture to express a simple idea: people depend on plants. The little figures make that relationship visible in the shape of the tree.
Plan the rest of your visit
NParks lists the Children’s Garden as open 8am to 7pm, with last admission at 6.30pm. It closes on Mondays except designated public holidays. Entry is free, children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult, and adults enter only when accompanying a child. Inside, the copper Native Wildlife sculptures make a second stop for a family visit.
Frequently asked questions
Is Mystree inside the play area?
NParks places it at the entrance to the Children’s Garden.
Why does the metal look reddish?
The artist used weathering steel, which takes on a rust-coloured appearance as it is exposed to the elements.
When did Mystree arrive?
NParks records it as a gift for the garden’s opening in 2007.