The aesthetic of reforestation: a narrative study from Bukit Gendol

Reforestation is commonly understood as an ecological practice aimed at restoring environmental functions; however, little attention has been given to how everyday reforestation activities undertaken by non artists may also constitute aesthetic experiences. This study examines the reforestation practice of Mbah Sadiman, who transformed Bukit Gendol from a degraded landscape into a forested environment through decades of sustained tree planting. Using a narrative inquiry approach within the framework of environmental aesthetics and everyday aesthetics, data were collected through in depth interviews, field observations, and visual documentation. The findings reveal that Sadiman’s reforestation efforts were driven not only by ecological concerns but also by environmental memory, aesthetic engagement, and a long term human nature relationship. Memories of water scarcity and environmental degradation became a powerful source of motivation, while continuous interaction with the forest generated multisensory aesthetic experiences that reinforced his commitment to ecological restoration. The transformation of Bukit Gendol demonstrates that aesthetic experience can emerge through everyday environmental practices rather than through artistic intention alone. This study contributes to environmental aesthetics by extending aesthetic inquiry beyond formal artistic contexts and showing how ecological action, memory, and lived environmental engagement can function as interconnected sources of aesthetic meaning and environmental stewardship.