Ama of Tarpon Springs Statue

Tarpon Springs, FL 34689

Ama of Tarpon Springs Statue

Welcome to the enchanting city of Tarpon Springs, Florida, where art, culture, and nature blend seamlessly. At the heart of this picturesque city, you'll find the captivating "Ama of Tarpon Springs" statue, a stunning 6' 4" bronze mermaid that graces the northernmost point of Craig Park, overlooking the serene Spring Bayou. Installed in April 2014, this exquisite piece of art has become a beloved symbol of the community, visible from the park, bayou waterways, and even across the water.

The statue beautifully incorporates elements of Tarpon Springs' rich heritage, featuring a traditional vase sponge at the mermaid's feet and a small manatee on the side of its base. These details pay homage to the city's vibrant Greek culture, its renowned sponge diving history, and its status as a sanctuary for manatees.

The vision for the "Ama of Tarpon Springs" statue was brought to life by Philip Jepsen and the Mermaids Of Earth, who introduced the idea to the Tarpon Springs Public Art Committee in 2013. The proposal received overwhelming support from city officials and citizens alike, leading to its approval by the City Board of Commissioners in December 2013. Cast in bronze in Thailand, the statue arrived just in time for the 2014 Tarpon Springs annual Art Festival.

Part of the Amaryllis Art for Charity project, sponsored by German company Koh-i-Noor, the "Ama of Tarpon Springs" is the 17th statue in a global series designed to grace locations of natural beauty near water. It holds the distinction of being the first Ama statue on America's East Coast. The name "Ama" is inspired by the traditional Japanese pearl divers, and also serves as a tribute to French artist Amaryllis, who created this and many other mermaid sculptures.

The "Ama of Tarpon Springs" has captured the attention of local and regional media, with features in the Tampa Bay Times and Suncoast News, celebrating its artistic and cultural significance.

Come and experience the magic of the "Ama of Tarpon Springs" statue, where mermaids, history, and the beauty of nature come together in a truly unforgettable setting.