When the kids were growing up, we had a giant weeping willow tree in the backyard. It was a magnificent specimen with long, graceful branches that swayed in the breeze. It was also a magnificent mess.

An image of a frozen lake and the reflection of willow branches above the water’s icy surface has claimed the top prize in the Wildlife Photographer of the Year People’s Choice Award 2021.

“So far, I've used 210 branches.” Eventually, there will be some 1 300 willow branches in the installation. The outward form of the artwork is already clear to the sculptor, but many willow branches ...