Artist Transformed Springfield Park Tree Stump
Louis Medlock is turning a tree stump at Phelps Grove Park into an intricate nature-themed sculpture.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Botany
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Professional artist Louis Medlock is currently carving a large wood sculpture at Springfield's Phelps Grove Park. The project features carved hawks, owls, a fox, squirrels, and sunflowers, designed to repurpose a prominent tree stump.
Why it matters
The sculpture project provides a creative solution for repurposing park infrastructure rather than removing it. Organizers hope the art will serve as a scenic focal point for visitors to enjoy while highlighting local wildlife themes.
The sculpture is being crafted using a chainsaw and custom scaffolding installed around the tree stump. The design specifically incorporates two hawks alongside a variety of other woodland creatures and flora.
The players
Louis Medlock
He is a professional artist and former chef who previously worked as an ice sculptor in various cities.
Connie Ryan
She is one of the project organizers who initiated the commission of the wood sculpture at the park.
Fran Giglio
She serves as a project organizer responsible for coordinating the artistic repurposing of the tree stump.
Vicki Trippe
She is a member of the organizing team that contacted the artist to launch the park sculpture project.
The details
Louis Medlock, who transitioned from a career as a professional chef to a full-time artist, utilizes a chainsaw to shape the wood from atop scaffolding. The commission was initiated by Connie Ryan, Fran Giglio, and Vicki Trippe to preserve the stump.
Timeline
Medlock began his career as a professional artist in 2020.
The sculpture is anticipated to be finished by the end of October 2026.
The Big Picture
This project represents an expansion of Medlock's technical expertise from ephemeral ice mediums to permanent wood sculpture. It follows a trajectory established by his training at the College of the Ozarks ice carving program, applying rigorous carving methods to long-term public installations.
Visitors to Phelps Grove Park can observe the chainsaw carving process firsthand as the sculpture takes shape. The installation will provide a permanent, nature-themed aesthetic feature for public enjoyment throughout the park.
The takeaway
Repurposing old tree stumps into public art offers a sustainable alternative to traditional removal methods. Residents can anticipate seeing the finished installation completed by late 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about local park projects in Springfield Botany.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KSMU Radio.
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