One of Splash Lagoon’s most recognizable landmarks has received a colorful makeover thanks to a local artist whose design was selected through a community contest.
Nadia Krofcheck, an Edinboro University graduate and multimedia artist, was chosen from approximately 15 submissions to repaint the indoor water park’s iconic fish sculpture, known as “Pebbles.” The project transformed a longtime Splash Lagoon fixture into a vibrant, tropical-inspired work of art.
What began as a design competition quickly became one of the largest projects Krofcheck has undertaken.
“I had no idea what I was getting into at first,” Krofcheck said. “Once I saw the sculpture, it was primed in white, and they took me to a paint store and told me to pick out any colors I would like.”
Using acrylic wall paint, brushes, rollers and a stepladder, Krofcheck completed the transformation in a single eight-hour session. Her design incorporates bright tropical colors and floral elements inspired by the atmosphere of the Erie County water park.
Splash Lagoon General Manager Ryan Cherry said the project was designed to do more than refresh a popular attraction.
“Community is everything,” Cherry said. “We’re an Erie-owned company, and we really wanted to bring in the community.”
According to Cherry, the fish sculptures have been a familiar part of Splash Lagoon for about 20 years and had begun showing signs of wear after years of use. The contest provided an opportunity to restore one of the park’s most photographed features while supporting local artists.
The refreshed sculpture has already generated attention online. After sharing the project on TikTok, Krofcheck said she was surprised by the response from viewers who recognized the familiar landmark from childhood visits.
“Everyone was flooding the comments saying, ‘This is like my childhood,’ and ‘You painting this fish is so amazing,'” Krofcheck said. “I was really glad that this brought back a lot of childhood memories for other people.”
Cherry said families frequently stop to take photos with the fish sculpture before heading into the water park, making it a longtime part of the Splash Lagoon experience.
The newly painted sculpture has been sealed with a protective automotive-grade clear coat to help preserve the artwork. Splash Lagoon officials said they hope to refresh additional fish sculptures around the property in the future.