Holy Family sculpture temporarily removed for repairs
The Holy Family sculpture聽on the Brighton Campus, which was carved from the massive trunk of an oak tree, is currently being treated for a carpenter ant infestation.聽
Despite regular treatments to deter insect activity, landscapers discovered telltale damage during an inspection this summer, said Landscape Planning Director Regina Bellavia. They contacted artist Ken Packie, who recommended bringing the sculpture to his workshop in western Massachusetts for repairs. In addition to cleaning out and replacing rotten wood, Packie will seal the exterior surface to protect it from pests.聽
Since its unveiling in 2021, the sculpture has also developed deep cracks caused by sun exposure, said Bellavia, which will be repaired by Packie as well. The sculpture is expected to be back in place this fall.聽
This is the first time the statue has been removed from its original base鈥攊t was carved on-site by Packie who specializes in wood sculptures, most inspired by nature. At the time, he called the assignment the most 鈥渁mbitious鈥� of his career both because of its size and deeper meaning.聽
鈥淓verything about this subject matter is so important,鈥� he said. 鈥淚鈥檓 not trying just to emulate the form; I鈥檓 trying to think about what it means to everybody.鈥�
The project emerged as a way to salvage the trunk of a 100-year-old oak tree, which was in failing health and posed a danger to passing pedestrians and motorists. The artwork gave the tree a second life, said Bellavia, and her team is working to ensure it lasts another century.聽聽
鈥淚t鈥檚 a little tricky and not something we鈥檝e had to deal with before,鈥� she said. 鈥淭here鈥檚 so many variables鈥攁nd with natural materials there鈥檚 only so much in your control.鈥�