Back by popular demand, “Harold” a life-sized sculpture of a hippopotamus will once again be gracefully floating in the Odell Park duck pond, following the City of Fredericton’s purchase of the piece.
The sculpture was created by local artist Jean Hudson in 2023 as part of the City of Fredericton’s Temporary Art Program. “Harold” first resided in Killarney Lake Park in 2023, in 2024 moved to Odell Park and spent summer 2025 in St. Andrews at Kingsbrae Garden.
“Public art helps create a unique and culturally active place, and cities with an active and dynamic cultural scene are more attractive to citizens, visitors, and businesses,” said Angela Watson, the city’s cultural development officer. “We are excited to have worked with Jean on the annual return of ‘Harold’ following his two successful seasons as part of the city’s temporary public art program.”
Going forward “Harold” will be a permanent seasonal feature within Fredericton following the sculpture’s installation on June 4, 2026. The piece will remain in the Odell Park duck pond until mid-fall and then return each following summer.
“The concept behind “Harold” is for people to question what they are seeing” said Jean Hudson, the artist behind the sculpture. “Hippopotamuses are not native to New Brunswick, therefore, having a hippo floating in a Fredericton pond is a fun and experimental way to question our surroundings; the real versus imaginary.”
“Harold” is made from the metal of repurposed barrels and welded to a strong frame making it very durable and weather resistant. The way in which the sculpture is anchored allows Harold” to sway slightly, depending on the wind and movement of the water, adding to its unique and captivating illusion.
The presence of sculpture in the Odell Park duck pond does not harm or disrupt the pond’s wildlife or vegetation.
Additional information about the City of Fredericton’s arts and culture programs is available online.