The world’s largest octopus sculpture has landed in NYC

It’s time to Oc-topi Wall Street!

Gillie and Marc, the renowned artistic duo known for a number of larger-than-life wildlife sculptures, are exhibiting an array of animal sculptures outside the World Trade Center, including the world’s largest octopus sculpture!

The exhibition named “Wildlife Wonders” includes three interactive bronze works from other pieces that feature their main two iconic characters, Rabbitwomen and Dogman, as well as sculptures of a range of endangered species. The spotlight, however, is on the giant octopus, which spans a whopping 36 feet and weighs around 7 tons. Woven throughout the animal’s eight tentacles are numerous endangered species, like rhinos and zebras.

It will be on display on the South Oculus Plaza from July 16, 2024, through July 31, 2025.  

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The creative pair are known for their celebration of wildlife conservation, where they prove that art can inspire positive change. While their sculptures are first and foremost to raise awareness about conservation they also welcome a playful response with their interactive qualities.

“In the last 50 years, wildlife populations have plummeted by 69% globally. We are now facing the world’s sixth mass extinction,” Gillie stated. “This crisis is beyond description, yet we remain hopeful and committed to witnessing change within our lifetimes. We trust that our art and the stories we tell can inspire people to engage in vital conversations and take meaningful action.” Their exhibitions both raise awareness and celebrate the beauty of wildlife. 

Along with the main piece “The Arms of Friendship,” the two others are titled “The Wild Table of Love” and “The Hippo Was Hungry To Try New Things With Rabbitwoman.” The former is a banquet scene with a bronze table set for both humans and animals. Like the tentacles, the sculpture welcomes you to sit and invites the viewer to join in on the festivities. All these whimsical scenes are made to put a playful spin on the discussion of wildlife conservation.  

Go check out these wondrous sculptures and remind yourself of the whimsy and awe of wildlife, maybe even sit on a tentacle or two.