crO!ak from the collection of Public Art Omaha

crO!ak

powder-coated steel

44 x 108 x 48 in

Location: Northwest Omaha (Google map)

This bench's frog theme was inspired by the lagoon at the Gene Leahy Mall, to give the impression that the amphibian might have crawled up from the water’s edge for a snack. The frog has captured a forlorn fly on the tip of his extended tongue, and he may just happen to catch a few Omahans in the process. The name “crO!ak” represents not only what frogs say, but also what the fly is about to do!

The playful theme is meant to appeal to both young and old alike and is fitting for a playground area. The undulating tongue’s surface provides high and low seating for people of all sizes.

"crO!ak" was sponsored by Prochaska & Associates and Dolphens Design and Sign. It was one of thirteen sculptural benches installed in 2010 along the paths of the Gene Leahy Mall as part of the "Take a Seat" project. The bench was moved from that location when renovations to the mall began in 2019, and placed in its current location near the playground at Flanagan Lake.