Seven-Ton Bronze Octopus Invades World Trade Center Plaza
“Wildlife Wonders,” an exhibition of work by renowned husband-and-wife artists Gillie and Marc Schattner has brought a trio of sculptures to the Oculus Plaza of the World Trade Center. The centerpiece is a new work, “The Arms of Friendship” — a 36-foot bronze cephalopod, whose eight arms cradle and protect an array of endangered species, including a rhino, hippo gorilla, zebra, tiger, and elephant.
“In the last 50 years, wildlife populations have plummeted by 69% globally. We are now facing the world’s sixth mass extinction,” Ms. Schattner says. “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.”
The artists insist that their sculpture “invites people to experience true awe by sitting on a tentacle belonging to the world’s biggest bronze octopus,” but their hosts, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (which owns and operates the World Trade Center) appears to think differently, perhaps out of concerns related to liability. A large sign in front of the piece pleads, “we know you like the sculpture, but please do not climb on the octopus.” So far, the Schattners appear to be winning this argument. Scores of small children can be seen clambering onto the creation each day.
Adjacent to the octopus are two other bronzes by the Schattners, “The Wild Table of Love,” and “The Hippo Was Hungry To Try New Things With Rabbitwoman.” The first depicts a dinner party hosted by Dogman (like Rabbitwoman, a human-animal chimera created by the Schattners), who presides over an 18-foot-long table with ten of the world’s most endangered animals, along with two empty seats for the public to claim. The second portrays an act of empathy, as Rabbitwoman shares a slice of watermelon with the giant semiaquatic African mammal.
“We created Rabbitwoman and Dogman as hybrids, bridging the human and wild worlds,” Mr. Schattner explains. “They have become our alter egos and protectors of wildlife. They journey around the globe spreading inspiration to love and safeguard our planet and its wildlife.”
“Wildlife Wonders,” which is a reprise to the Schattner’s earlier popular exhibit at the World Trade Center, “A Wild Life for Wildlife,” will be on display through next summer.