In celebration of Blank Park Zoo’s 60th Anniversary Diamond Jubilee, Roar & Explore is Blank Park Zoo’s very first art trail which will see Iowa businesses, community groups and artists unite to create a free, fun, family-friendly trail of discovery for the local community to enjoy. These large-scale African lion sculptures are proudly created in house by our team of maintenance technicians and will highlight the work of over 20 artists throughout the state in summer of 2026.

Why lions?

African lions have been an iconic symbol of Blank Park Zoo for sixty years. This public, large-scale art trail of African lion sculptures celebrates the expansion of our lion pride and the opening of the Marjorie A. Foster Lion Conservation Center opening in 2026. The Marjorie Foster Lion Conservation Center triples the space dedicated to conservation and will increase the Zoo’s role in global conservation of the species. Featuring floor to ceiling glass, these viewing experiences are designed with an inclusive lens allowing guests to connect with a pride of lions.

As the only Great Cat that lives in social groups, lions symbolize strength, courage and community. In celebration of 60 years of dedication to conservation, education, research and recreation, Blank Park Zoo is proud to showcase art featuring the lion throughout the state of Iowa.

Get Involved

Artists – both professional and amateur – are invited to submit art work qualifications by Monday, January 26, 2026 to Blank Park Zoo’s 60th Anniversary Committee for the opportunity to participate in Blank Park Zoo’s community sculpture project. The sculptures will be on public display from the beginning of May through Labor Day weekend. Artists are responsible for the upkeep, touch-ups and general maintenance of the sculpture during this period.