#9: Solitude
Levi Yakubu, 2026
You'll find this piece near the offshoot of paved trail by the dig pit.
About the tree
Shortleaf Pine
Pinus echinata
aka “Southern Yellow Pine” This fast-growing evergreen conifer can reach a height of 70’-100’. It is named for its short yellowish green needles which are typically 3”-5” long and grow in clusters of two or three. The egg-shaped cones are 2” long with a small prickle at the tip of each scale.
Fun Fact: The bark has sticky resin filled holes or pockets that are less than 1mm wide that help identify it from other pines.
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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