#2: Untitled
Levi Yakubu, 2026
Turn off to the left as you come up Library Drive, you'll find this piece on a tree just off the unpaved hiking trail, looking toward the creek.
About the tree
American Beech
Fagus grandifolia
This medium to large tree can grow 60’-80’ in height and 2’-3’ in diameter. The crown is broad and rounded. The gray bark is tight, smooth and can often be home to common script lichen (Graphis scripta) indicating good air quality. Leaves turn bright yellow in the fall and later tan. The tan leaves hang on until the next spring when they drop to reveal long thin cigar like buds. Beechnuts are an important source of mast (food) for a variety of wildlife. This tree can live 150-200 years. Fun fact: Young saplings can survive in the shade of larger trees for years waiting for one to fall, allowing enough light and room to grow.
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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