PASS-A-GRILLE BEACH, Fla. — For months, streets on barrier islands have been littered with storm debris.

The piles of trash were a reminder of what was lost for a lot of people. So, why is one man bringing that debris that was removed back there? The answer is simple: He’s making a trash tree.

What You Need To Know

  • The Gulf Beaches Historical Museum commissioned artist Gary Ludwig to use damaged materials and debris from hurricanes Helene and Milton and turn them into art pieces

  • Ludwig said he wants the trees to be a reminder for people to appreciate what was left behind despite many people losing a lot to the storms

  • The trees will be on display at the Gulf Beaches Historical Museum this Sunday on Pass-a-Grille Beach

Gary Ludwig’s design space can be described as a lot of things. Just be sure you don’t forget the word "character." This week, he’s putting together one of his most interesting pieces yet.

“Well they wanted to have a trashy Christmas tree. So, I’m using all of the trash. Including all of the nails that we have,” Ludwig said.

Each nail, hinge, and piece of board tells a different story. With this project, it’s an unlikely story. It’s a hurricane Christmas story.

“It was a combination of museum requests and they wanted to use the trashed up materials caused by Helene and Milton. And rather than throwing them in the debris pile, let’s make some use out of them — recycle them,” he said. “We’re looking at how you display the trash and that’s what happens during a hurricane. Things get all broken up. So, we don’t really want it to be squared off.”

Over the course of two days, the three Christmas trash trees came together. The work was commissioned by the Gulf Beaches Historical Museum.  

And while art is subjective, Ludwig wants these trees to send a specific message.

“I want them to see destruction. I want them to be reminded that even though a lot of people lost everything, a lot of people were very lucky and were able to appreciate what was left and do something creative with it,” he said.

So if you’re worried about being on the naughty list, there is some good news. The trees will be mounted at the museum across from the beach, so there will be no coal underneath, just sand.

The trees are going up and will be on display at the Gulf Beaches Historical Museum this Sunday on Pass-a-Grille Beach. The museum is hosting a Light Up the Museum holiday decoration event. All are invited to celebrate outside as they continue with their rebuilding process inside.