The well-loved children’s author, Dr. Seuss, wrote timeless classics that revolutionized literacy. His books contained amusing stories, rhymes and illustrations that kept both reader and child interested in the book. One of Seuss’ most famous pieces, The Lorax, has made its mark on the world, and even here in Omaha.

The book highlights the importance of environmental sustainability and respecting natural resources. This is an idea that has started a trend and a movement toward

greater responsibility.

The Joslyn Art Museum in Omaha is hosting a new exhibit in honor of “The Lorax” and is paying special tribute to the Truffula Tree, a key figure in Seuss’ book. In conjunction with the Joslyn Art Museum, University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Service Learning Academy, Blackburn Alternative High School, Skinner Magnet Center, and Peter Kiewit Institute were also involved in bringing the Truffula Tree to life. The sculpture will feature plastic bags as leaves as tribute to environmental stability.

“I think, in general, environmental protection and preservation is on the rise; it’s a topic that is on the table and not just a trend . . . people are taking action in real ways for the long term,” said Amy Rummel, director of marketing and public relations for the

Joslyn Museum.

In addition to the plastic bags, another unique feature of the Truffula Tree is the poems and artwork along the trunk of the tree. Students of the Skinner Magnet Center created all the poems and artwork about trees. Students of all ages contributed in the design and creation of the sculpture.

“This project was an incredible experience for all participants,” said Laura Huntimer, interpretive media manager at the Joslyn

Art Museum.

A variety of community members contributed to the design and creation of the sculpture, and students were involved in many of these processes.

“I observed people whose profession is not in the education field step up and teach these students things like how to hold a shovel or how concrete works,” Huntimer said.

The engagement level encourages students to be more aware of the environment, and to respect natural resources.

While the sculpture will be taking a more permanent residence at the Skinner Magnet Center, the Joslyn Art Museum will be planting an American Yellowwood tree, so the exhibit will live on.

“The Museum has committed to a program of organic fertilizers and treatments that are best for the environment and our visitors,” Rummel said.

The live tree will take several years to reach maturity, but it is known for its bright fall leaves and strong structure. The tree will be located in the museum’s garden, where visitors are encouraged to relax and enjoy the scenery.

The museum opened the official exhibit on Oct. 8; it will remain open for viewing through Nov. 8. However, the original drawings and sketches will be available only through

Nov. 3.