Howe Park Wood, Walton | Milton Keynes MK4 1LU, UK
"Music" in the park!
Sometimes, the best discoveries happen when you’re least expecting them. Imagine taking a peaceful stroll through Howe Park Wood in Milton Keynes, soaking in the natural beauty, when suddenly — you stumble upon a band jamming out by the pond. But wait… they’re not your average musicians. They’re frogs. Sculpted frogs, to be exact, and they’ve got a groove all their own!
As a music lover and avid concert-goer, this discovery felt like hitting the jackpot. Meet the “Frog Band,” a quirky and delightful art installation created by sculptor Emmanuel Changunda, who worked as an artist in residence in Milton Keynes from 2013 to 2014. Teaming up with fellow artist Obediar Madziva, Changunda brought these amphibious rock stars to life, making them a permanent part of the landscape. Today, the Frog Band proudly calls the ponds at Howe Park Wood home, where they serenade visitors with their silent, stone melodies.
This talented quartet has everything a proper band needs. There’s a charismatic lead singer belting out tunes, a cool guitarist strumming along, a percussionist shaking maracas with serious rhythm, and a drummer keeping the beat steady. Each frog has its own personality, captured perfectly in stone — from the singer’s open-mouthed croon to the drummer’s focused stance.
What makes the Frog Band so special is the unexpected whimsy it adds to the park. Stumbling upon these statues feels like discovering a secret concert in the woods. It’s a playful reminder that art isn’t just confined to galleries or museums; it can pop up in the most unexpected places, turning an ordinary walk into a magical experience.
Next time you find yourself in Milton Keynes, make sure to swing by Howe Park Wood and say hello to the Frog Band. Trust me, they’re worth the detour — and they never miss a beat!
