NEWS | Replica Kenneth Carter panel recreated for Queen’s Gardens

The panel, a replica of a missing piece by renowned Hull School of Art tutor Kenneth Carter, has been meticulously recreated by a skilled stonemason from LCC Restorations.

Crafted from Stonehills Whitbed Portland Limestone, the panel took five weeks to complete using traditional carving techniques. Measuring approximately 1000mm x 3000mm, it now sits alongside two original panels on the eastern boundary wall near Wilberforce Drive.

The restoration was commissioned as part of the refurbishment of Queen’s Gardens. The missing panel is one of six sculptural reliefs originally designed by Kenneth Carter as part of Sir Frederick Gibberd’s 1961 Masterplan for the Gardens. Until now, only five of the six panels remained in situ.

Kenneth Carter envisioned these panels as abstract representations inspired by oceanic forms - pebbles, shells, and marine bony structures, drawing on Hull’s maritime history, as Queen’s Gardens once stood as the largest dock in the UK, known as Queen’s Dock. His concept was rooted in imagination; he believed that the abstract shapes, reminiscent of sea creatures and natural formations, would evoke a sense of wonder and organic beauty, transcending literal interpretation.

LCC Restoration’s master carver established a vital connection with Carter’s sons through genealogical research and correspondence, they provided insights that informed the recreation process, ensuring authenticity.

Drawing on his extensive study of the historical imagery and articles he had found and was very kindly furnished with by Kenneth Carter’s family, the stonemason crafted detailed sketches of the panels. Life-sized templates were created, allowing precise transfer onto the stone. 

To honour the original craftsmanship, the stonemason meticulously carved the reliefs using traditional tools reminiscent of the 1960s, including hand chisels and grinders, emulating the techniques likely used by Carter himself, refining each surface with sanding and polishing techniques using specialized stones. The final sealing preserved the intricate details, culminating in a stunning replica that echoes Carter’s original vision.

“It’s been a privilege to recreate Kenneth Carter’s work,” said the stonemason from LCC Restorations who led the carving. 

“Using traditional tools and techniques to bring this panel to life has been a rewarding challenge. It’s an honour to contribute to the legacy of Queen’s Gardens and help restore a piece of Hull’s artistic heritage.”

Councillor Mike Ross, Leader of Hull City Council, said: “This frieze panels hold a special place in the hearts of Hull’s residents. This careful recreation is a journey of respect and craftsmanship that honours Carter’s legacy and restores the integrity of the original artistic vision for Queen’s Gardens.

“It’s vital that we balance its historical significance with the need for modern improvements.”

The cleaning and restoration of the remaining five panels also took place. The damaged areas of the stone were restored using a lime-based mortar mixture sourced from the original quarry where the stone was originally extracted. This mortar was formulated to closely replicate the colour and weathering characteristics of Portland stone. It was meticulously applied to the distressed sections, with the stonemason skilfully sculpting the mortar to seamlessly infill the broken fragments and blend with the surrounding surface, ensuring the repairs are virtually indistinguishable.

All the Portland stone was cleaned using the superheated DOFF system, a gentle yet effective method that employs high-temperature steam to remove dirt, biological growth, and pollutants without damaging the stone's surface. This sympathetic cleaning process ensures the preservation of the stone's integrity and original appearance.

The restoration and recreation of these panels are just one element of the garden’s that are being given a new life as part of the wider investment to improve the green space for everyone.