When it comes to trees, no one likes seeing an old timer bite the sawdust. But when nature does take it’s course, usually the prudent thing to do is to remove a dead tree and plant a new one in its stead.
In the case of one mammoth dead tree on Auburn Avenue (at Elmwood), the decision was made to leave the tree, and let a folk art wood carver by the name of “Cuzen” do his thing. Once the carving was finished, the street was left with an impressive work of art that adds some flavor the the neighborhood.
Cuzen’s works can also be seen at the Outer Harbor, and on the East Side at the Central Terminal. The tree on Auburn is dedicated to the Elmwood Festival of the Arts, and features a globe, an eagle and native American design references.