The Locals of the Smokies
Permanent Exhibition From November 2025
Tanger Outlets Sevierville, Tennessee, 1645 Parkway, Sevierville, TN 37862
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About the Exhibition
Internationally acclaimed artists Gillie and Marc have brought the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains to life through a whimsical bronze sculpture series that celebrates the true locals — the animals that call this extraordinary region home.
Each sculpture captures a moment of play, connection, and imagination, showing the Smokies’ beloved creatures as they live, laugh, and explore their world. Together, they invite visitors to slow down, smile, and rediscover the joy of being present in nature.
From an elk taking a joyride to a fox strumming a song of the mountains, these engaging and interactive sculptures turn the shopping center into a playful outdoor gallery. The series celebrates the region’s beauty and biodiversity while reminding us to treasure and protect the wildlife that defines it.
This collaboration between Gillie and Marc and Tanger Outlets Sevierville transforms public space into a joyful meeting place where art, nature, and community come together.
“We are so honoured to have our sculptures come to life at Tanger Outlets Sevierville, surrounded by the breathtaking Smoky Mountains. This region is home to some of the most beautiful and beloved wildlife, and it has inspired us to create these whimsical tributes to nature. Each sculpture celebrates the unique spirit of the Smokies’ local endangered and native species, reminding us of the incredible animals we share our world with. We hope these works bring joy, spark curiosity, and inspire visitors of all ages to protect and cherish our natural environment. It means the world to us to be part of such a wonderful community and shopping destination, and we can’t wait for everyone to experience and interact with the sculptures.”
– Gillie and Marc
SCULPTURES
Black Bear and Raccoon: The Space Between Strangers
A quiet moment unfolds on a park bench — a young raccoon and an adult black bear share a seat by chance. There’s no fear, only curiosity. The bear sits calmly as the raccoon leans in, both captivated by the stillness of the day. This peaceful encounter invites us to reflect on how connection often begins with the simple act of noticing one another.
Salamander: Warm Coffee for the Cold-Blooded
In the world’s salamander capital, even the shyest locals deserve a little warmth. This playful piece shows a salamander savoring a cup of coffee, embodying courage, comfort, and the simple pleasures that unite us all. Sometimes, even a creature of cool streams needs a hot brew to start the day.
Elk: Antlers to the Wind
An adventurous young bull leaps onto a bicycle, antlers raised high as he rides into the breeze. With hooves on handlebars and joy in his heart, he reminds us that life’s greatest adventures come when we let go and live in the moment. There’s always room for another rider — hop on and share the fun.
Red Tail Fox: Songs from the Land of the Blue Smoke
A lively fox, boots tapping and guitar in paw, strums a melody that echoes through the Smoky Mountains. Inspired by Sevierville’s own Dolly Parton, this sculpture celebrates creativity, resilience, and the music that binds us to our roots. Her song invites everyone nearby to join in harmony.
White Tail Deer and River Otter: Generations of Pixels and Paper
On one bench, a young river otter scrolls through a digital screen while an elder deer reads the morning paper. Both are lost in thought, separated by technology yet united in curiosity. The sculpture gently reminds us that though our worlds may look different, our desire to learn and connect remains timeless.
Cottontail Rabbit: Momma’s Got a Brand New Bag
A moment of quiet confidence — a rabbit shopper clutching her new treasure, standing a little taller, glowing with newfound pride. She’s transformed, radiant, and ready to face the day with style. A nod to the timeless anthem of empowerment, she reminds us that joy and confidence are the best accessories of all.
