#4: Kwaghiir
Levi Yakubu, 2026
You can find this piece just off the unpaved hiking trail that runs parallel to the paved path.
About the tree
Sourwood
Oxydendrum arboreum
This 30’-50’ tall tree is found throughout North Carolina and can live 50-100 years. It is a slender tree often growing in a leaning, crooked, manner covered with smooth rusty brown bark turning furrowed and blocky with age. It’s a showstopper in the fall when its 3”-6” long shiny green leaves turn a deep crimson, orange, or purple color.
Fun facts: Bees love the tiny, fragrant, bell-shaped, white flowers. and produce delicious, prized honey from the nectar. It is often called Sorrel tree because the sour taste of the leaves is like the herb sorrel.
About the project
In March 2026, twelve trees in Pritchard Park will be home to clay masks and figures, created by artist Levi Yakubu and inspired by his Nigerian background.
Levi Yakubu is a graduate of Dordt University in Fine Arts Studio with an emphasis in ceramics. He is a 5th generation potter who grew up in Nigeria surrounded by mentors like his father who have influenced his work today. Yakubu draws upon his rich cultural background, the Tiv ethnic group of West Africa, to create artwork that speaks to his cultural identity and encourages dialogue around difficult issues. He currently resides in Chapel Hill, North Carolina where he is an art teacher.
See more of Levi's work on Instagram @yakubupottery.
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