Calgary's 4th Street frogs are missing and here's what we know
Pedestrians in Calgary are well familiar with the city’s numerous murals and public art pieces. For many, they are our constant companions as we walk to our favourite coffee shops or commute to work. But recently, a friendly amphibious trio was reported missing, leaving many on Reddit’s r/Calgary thread to wonder: where did the 4th Street frogs go?
Naturally, we had to get to the bottom of it.
In case you aren’t familiar with these green locals, let us rewind. This public art piece features three 10-foot-tall frogs lounging on a steel bench along 4th St. and 21st Ave. SW, Calgary.
These statuesque frogs are made of hand-welded steel and sheet metal, then painted with urethane. The piece is titled Hanging Out and was created by Calgary artist Peter Smith, who has exhibited in solo and group shows throughout Alberta and B.C. and has installed commissioned works in Calgary and Vancouver.
“I have often used frogs metaphorically,” Smith says. “In this piece, the frogs are simply hanging out. Because of their size, they are able to dominate a frog/human interaction ā who is watching whom?! However, these amphibians are friendly; they may even make room on the bench for a stranger to shoot the breeze.ā
Now that you’re up to speed, you can see why Calgarians were left scratching their heads when the 4th Street frogs were ‘reported missing’ a week ago. Daily Hive reached out to the 4th Street BIA to learn where the frogs went, and if they were ever coming back.
“The frogs are on a leap of absence ā back soon after a refresh!” A marketing representative from the 4th Street BIA told Daily Hive.
The art piece is temporarily away for restoration, but will be back soon. The sculpture was installed back in 1994 and is understandably overdue for a little R&R.
“Donāt worry ā theyāll be back soon, shinier and more laid-back than ever. Until then, weāre saving their spot. ā
Rest assured, Calgary. You haven’t seen the last of the 4th Street frogs. You’ll just have to keep your eyes peeled for their return.
Do you have a favourite public art pieceĀ in Calgary? Let us know in the comments below.