There's A Panther Loose in Central Park

If you happen to find yourself in Central Park on the East Drive at 76th Street, you may spot the Central Park Panther, perched on a rock ledge on the west side of the drive.  

I first noticed this sculpture in 1984. I was jogging around the park in a counter-clockwise direction, huffing and puffing as I headed up the hill just north of the 72nd Street Transverse. I looked to my left and spotted the statue, looking like it was ready to pounce on me at any moment.

Although I left New York City twenty-five years ago, I visit frequently and try to make time for the occasional run. I always get a thrill when I see the panther and I feel a bit more motivated to make it to the top of the hill, my huffing and puffing notwithstanding.

My most recent sighting was this morning. I had to chuckle when I saw a couple just ahead of me suddenly notice the panther. Maybe, I'm just imaging this, but I'm pretty sure that they were startled, just like I was over 30 years ago.

When I got back from my run, I Googled "Central Park Panther." I discovered that my panther had a name, "Still Hunt" and a creator, Edward Kemeys.

But here is what else, I learned. I thought that I had left Kemeys in New York, but I was wrong. Every time, I pass by Chicago's Art Institute, I see Kemeys' even more iconic creation -- "The Lions" guarding its main entrance. How cool is that?