This massive sculpture of animals hanging out on a couch is debuting in Manhattan

Published June 2024 by Time Out New York

'Wild Couch Party' advocates for the protection of endangered species.

Gillie and Marc Schattner, the husband-and-wife artist duo behind the giant sculptures of endangered animals that were installed in Greenwich Village a few years ago and the massive statue of Ruth Bader Ginsburg in downtown Brooklyn, are about to celebrate the installation of their latest work: Wild Couch Party, a bronze sculpture featuring some of the most endangered animals in the world just hanging out, set to debut at 28 Liberty Street in the Financial District on June 10.

Rabbitwoman and Dogman, the anthropomorphic characters brought to life  by the artists as vessels for their own messages regarding the current world order, are the hosts of the couch party, each one sitting beside an African elephant.

“We created Rabbitwoman and Dogman as human-wildlife hybrids, our bridge between the human and wild worlds," said Marc in an official statement. "They have become our alter egos and wildlife protectors. They travel the world spreading inspiration to love and protect our planet and its wildlife. We love watching people interacting with them and having fun while learning about wildlife conservation."

Wild Couch Party also features a hippo, a Masai giraffe, a Bengal tiger, a koala, a chimpanzee, Grevy's zebra, a Northern white rhino, a lion, a mountain gorilla, an orangutan and an Arabian red fox.

"They have each been invited to the party as representatives of some of the best-known species in the world," reads a press release. "And yet they all are dangerously close to the same threat, extinction."

In addition to Wild Couch Party, folks will be able to gaze at three other sculptures by the artists all throughout Liberty Plaza. Watch out for Paparazzi Dog and Watch out for Paparazzi Rabbit also focus on Rabbitwoman and Dogman, each one depicted as emerging from manholes holding cameras as commentary on the power of fame and the spotlight.

"The camera symbolizes the tool to showcase our passions, talents, and achievements, inspiring others and leaving a lasting cultural impact," explains the release.

In Friends Forever Bench, folks are actually encouraged to sit between Rabbitwoman and Dogman and perhaps even talk to them. The interactive sculpture sheds light on the importance of creating new friendships.

The installation will be on view in downtown Manhattan through May 28, 2025.

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