Hull City Council has carried out the emergency removal of the carved Hull 2017 tree stump in Pearson Park.
The sculpture, ‘Whispering Sweet Nothings’, created by artist Julian Barnard during Hull’s year as UK City of Culture in 2017, was carved from the remaining stump of a dead tree that had been partially felled around ten years ago.
Because the tree stump was no longer alive, the council, in partnership with the Pearson Park Trust, had been monitoring the sculpture, as it had a limited lifespan and was expected to continue to naturally decay over time.
Following the most recent inspection on Friday 10 January, it was revealed that the stump had significantly deteriorated and was unstable, posing a safety risk.
Due to its location – near a well-used-footpath and road – its emergency removal was essential to protect the safety of those visiting the popular west Hull park.
In agreement with the Pearson Park Trust, the council has safely removed the remaining upright section of the stump and laid the sculpture horizontally on the ground, next to its original location.
The sculpture will remain in the park, where it will be allowed to decay naturally. In its new position, it will provide a valuable habitat for wildlife while still offering visitors the chance to enjoy this much‑loved artwork.
Councillor Charles Quinn, cabinet portfolio holder for environment, said: “The Hull 2017 tree sculpture has become a much-loved feature of Pearson Park, representing our city’s creativity and culture.
“While safety must always come first, we want to ensure that its legacy continues. By laying the sculpture on the ground, we’re ensuring it continues to have a lasting legacy as it naturally transforms into a wildlife haven.
“This way, visitors can continue to enjoy the sculpture, remembering the spirit of Hull 2017, and what it meant for our city.”