"O" Mage, Omaha

“O”Mage is a public sculpture created by local artist Sharon Boynton as a tribute to the city's historical and cultural identity. It was installed at Gene Leahy Mall in 2005 as part of the Wind & Water Sculpture Project, developed in connection with the Omaha Summer Arts Festival.

Contrary to earlier descriptions, the work was not created by Spanish sculptor Jaume Plensa and was not installed during the park’s 2022 redevelopment. When renovation began in 2019, the sculpture was removed and relocated to its present setting near Flanagan Lake Road at Flanagan Lake. The sculpture takes the form of a red letter “O”, using a symbol associated with the city's name and identity. It was fabricated from welded steel tubing, with steel plate used for its legs and base, rather than stainless steel. Its title combines the letter “O” with the word “homage,” reflecting the artist’s intention to present the city as a force moving forward. The open center and curved steel structure allow the work to appear different when viewed from changing angles, while its red finish makes it visible against the landscape.

At its location, “O”Mage was positioned above the water as part of a group of locally created sculptures exploring themes of wind and water. Its location places it within the landscape surrounding Flanagan Lake, where visitors can view it while walking, cycling, or using park facilities. The sculpture remains part of the City of Omaha’s public-art collection.