Client: Henry Doorly Zoo, Omaha, NE

Overview

This 12 foot tall bronze fountain is the centerpiece for the plaza in front of the newly renovated Aquarium at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo. Larger-than-life replicas of sting rays, starfish, and other aquatic life come alive in an underwater symphony in rich patina colors and spouting water. In addition to the fountain, the plaza features benches where visitors can share a seat with 5 unique and colorful starfish.

Goals

To enrich the plaza outside Henry Doorly Zoo's Aquarium, "Aquatic Rhapsody" encompasses a slew of aquatic life, each element depicting some of the items on display in the exhibit. The fountain was designed in a way so it can be a stand-alone sculpture with no water and enjoyed year round.

Process

Each element of "Aquatic Rhapsody" was hand-sculpted in clay, then cast in bronze at a foundry using a 2,000 lost art wax process.