Giant Frog, Spider, Dragonfly, Fish, Bird Invade Crest Lake Park

CLEARWATER, FL — While a kiss won't likely turn him into a prince, his sheer size certainly makes Crest Lake Park's newest resident the king of the frogs.

The steel frog sculpture created by Live Steel Studio artist Don Gialanella of St. Petersburg with assistance from Aleisha Prather is among five new public art pieces installed along the trail at the Clearwater park at 201 S Glenwood Ave.

The sculptures represent different species that can be seen in the area including a dragon fly perched on a foundation in the lake, a fish, a water bird, a leggy arachnid and this latest amphibian contribution.

"Art in public spaces plays a vital role in enhancing the aesthetic value of our city and creates a sense of pride in our community," said Clearwater Mayor Frank Hibbard. "The new sculptures at Crest Lake Park are a testament to our commitment to making art accessible to everyone."

The sculptures are made using laser-cut stainless-steel shapes that intersect each other at perpendicular angles and connect like a puzzle.

"This unique construction will appeal to children and adults alike. Children may see them as giant toy puzzles, while adults will marvel at the architectural intricate designs," said Gialanella. "The animal sculptures will make walking the loop an experience by offering an exciting new work of art at various points in the journey."

Adopted by Lotz of Blessings, Crest Lake Park is one of Clearwater's signature parks. It offers a variety of amenities including a year-round splash pad and playground, outdoor gym equipment, beach volleyball courts, a dog park and scenic Crest Lake where residents can fish or launch a canoe or kayak.

It also features an arboretum where kids can learn about plants in the park using interactive QR codes.

And as the home of the Florida Veterans Memorial Plaza, Crest Lake pays homage to the nation's veterans.

The park is open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week.