In a surprising turn of events, a beloved tree sculpture located in Pearson Park, Hull, has been removed due to concerns about safety. This iconic piece of art, crafted by the talented artist Julian Barnard during Hull's celebrated year as the UK City of Culture in 2017, was ingeniously carved from the trunk of a deceased tree.
After a recent evaluation conducted on Friday, officials from Hull City Council determined that the sculpture had undergone significant deterioration, rendering it unstable and potentially hazardous to visitors. The council emphasized that the decision to fell the sculpture was critical for ensuring the safety of park-goers, particularly given its proximity to both a footpath and a roadway.
The trunk of the sculpture has been laid down in close proximity to its original location, where it is expected to naturally decompose over time. Despite its removal from an upright position, the council highlighted that this new arrangement would still serve an important purpose—providing a valuable habitat for local wildlife while allowing the community to appreciate the artwork from a different perspective.
Councillor Charles Quinn expressed the sentiment shared by many in the community, stating: "The Hull 2017 tree sculpture has become a cherished aspect of Pearson Park, symbolizing our city's rich creativity and cultural spirit. By placing the sculpture on the ground, we are ensuring it leaves a lasting impact as it gradually transforms into a sanctuary for wildlife. This approach enables visitors to continue enjoying the essence of the sculpture, recalling the significance of Hull 2017 and its contribution to our city’s identity."
This decision has sparked a variety of reactions among locals. Some may agree with the council's commitment to safety, while others might see the removal as a loss to the park's cultural heritage. What do you think? Is the preservation of art worth risking safety, or should safety always come first? Share your thoughts in the comments!
