Baker Hunt received the unfortunate news that their beloved American Beech tree, estimated to be around 140 years old, needs to be removed.
Several years ago, the team noticed a fungus, which was identified as Brittle Cinder Fungus, an incurable infection that destroys the tree trunk’s structure at the base.
At that time, Virginia Kerst paid for remediation: canopy reduction, nutrient treatments, core samples for studies, etc. Baker Hunt has continued the nutrient treatments quarterly for the last four years. These steps and treatments “bought” the tree an additional 4 years.
However, recent tests have shown that the fungus has grown, and the tree is no longer viable. Under the advice of six different tree experts from several reputable local companies, Baker Hunt needs to remove the tree for the safety of its campus and students, due to the progression and internal destruction the fungus is causing.
This news is sure to stir a lot of feelings, and the gardeners, staff, and students are experiencing those same feelings.
However, once Baker Hunt knew it was for the safety of the students, the choice was clear.
Because the tree carries so many memories and nostalgia, including the fact that the Baker Hunt Founders, Margaretta Baker Hunt and Kate Scudder, frequently sat among the tree, Baker Hunt has decided to memorialize it how they know best, through art.
Baker Hunt held a community event, on May 9th, to honor the tree through art, encouraging work inspired by the tree through plein-air painting, colored pencils, sketching, photography, clay, or collage. Baker Hunt provided some materials, including paint, colored pencils, and paper, as well as snacks.
On Friday, June, 26th, interested artists can bring their piece back to be displayed at the first summer concert. At that time a winner will be picked from the artwork.
A chosen artwork will be purchased from the artist for $200 and become the property of Baker Hunt. That work will then be framed using the very wood of the Beech Tree and displayed on campus, including a plague with artist recognition.
Established in 1922, Baker Hunt Art and Cultural Center is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to changing lives through art education and community. Baker Hunt offers professional instruction in nearly all art media, serving more than 3,500 students from school age to adult through art, cooking, and movement classes and workshops each year.