Heritage Elm Sculpture

In response to the City Council's poignant request to preserve the memory of the majestic elm trees that once graced Bidwell Park, artist Owen Gabbert embarked on a remarkable artistic endeavor. General John Bidwell's century-old arboreal legacy, though ravaged by decay, found new life in Gabbert's hands. The resulting bronze sculptures, with their distinctive horn-shaped abstract figures, pay tribute to the swaying branches and the enduring spirit of Bidwell Park's cherished summer concerts and dancing enthusiasts known fondly as "Fred and Ginger."

The Heritage Elm Sculpture serves as a powerful symbol of the intersection between nature, history, and art. Gabbert's ability to transform decaying wood into captivating sculptures echoes the enduring resonance of Bidwell Park within the community's collective memory. These sculptures remind us of the timeless connection between the past and the present, bridging generations while celebrating the enduring legacy of Bidwell Park's historic trees.