Life-sized hippopotamus sculpture finds permanent home in Fredericton pond

The City of Fredericton has a new permanent resident.

“Harold,” a life-sized sculpture of a hippopotamus, has been purchased by the city.

The sculpture’s permanent home will be the Odell Park duck pond, where it will remain until mid-fall and then return each summer.

Created by artist Jean Hudson in 2023, “Harold” was first on display in Killarney Lake Park. In 2024, the sculpture was moved to Odell Park and then Kingsbrae Garden in Saint Andrews in 2025.

“The concept behind ‘Harold’ is for people to question what they are seeing” said Hudson in a news release from the city. “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.”

Angela Watson, Fredericton’s cultural development officer, says the city is excited for the annual return of “Harold” following two successful seasons as part of the temporary public art program.

“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 Watson in the release.

The city says the sculpture is made from the metal of repurposed barrels. It is anchored to a strong frame in a way that “allows ‘Harold’ to sway slightly, depending on the wind and movement of the water, adding to its unique and captivating illusion.”

The city adds the sculpture does not harm or disrupt the pond’s wildlife or vegetation.

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