If you’re looking for something unforgettable to see in New York City, head to the South Oculus Plaza near the World Trade Center. There, you’ll find a huge, bronze octopus sculpture called “The Arms of Friendship.” It’s not just a piece of art—it’s also an invitation to learn, reflect, and take part in helping save endangered animals.
This massive octopus is 36 feet long and weighs 7 tons. Created by artists Gillie and Marc, it’s more than just a fun photo spot. It carries an important message about protecting wildlife and our planet. You can even climb onto its tentacles, making this one of the most interactive and meaningful art pieces in the city.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes this installation so special, and why it’s something you shouldn’t miss.
What Is “The Arms of Friendship”?
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At first glance, it might just look like a giant sea creature lounging in the middle of the city. But when you get closer, you’ll see something deeper. The octopus is gently holding animals that are endangered, like elephants, rhinos, gorillas, and hippos. These animals are sculpted in great detail, and they rest in the octopus’s tentacles as if it’s keeping them safe.
The sculpture is part of an art series called “Wildlife Wonders.” It’s all about raising awareness for endangered species and reminding people of the sixth mass extinction—a major loss of wildlife that scientists say is happening right now.
The artists want people to feel a sense of connection. You’re welcome to sit on the sculpture, take pictures, and spend time with it. By making it interactive, it becomes easier for both kids and adults to understand the message.
A Fun and Meaningful Experience
One of the most exciting parts of visiting this sculpture is that it’s not just something you look at—it’s something you can interact with. Kids love to climb onto the tentacles and sit next to the animals. Adults stop to take photos or read the signs that explain the meaning behind the artwork.
It’s fun, yes—but it also makes people stop and think. How are we treating our planet? What can we do to help endangered animals? These questions are at the heart of what Gillie and Marc want to spark through their work.
The Artists: Gillie and Marc
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Gillie and Marc are a husband-and-wife team who have spent their careers creating art that speaks to the heart. They believe in making public art that is both fun and meaningful. Over the years, they’ve installed sculptures in over 250 cities worldwide.
Some of their most famous characters are Rabbitwoman and Dogman, who represent love, acceptance, and unity. These figures appear in many of their installations and are also part of the “Wildlife Wonders” series.
Here are three things to know about them:
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They use their art to speak for animals. Many of their sculptures are about conservation and protecting wildlife.
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They believe art should be public. Instead of putting art behind glass in galleries, they place it in city streets and plazas, where everyone can enjoy it.
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They are globally known. Their work appears in places like London, Singapore, and Sydney—but New York has become one of their most celebrated showcases.
A Wake-Up Call About Wildlife
In the past 50 years, scientists say we’ve lost about 69% of global wildlife. That number is hard to imagine. “The Arms of Friendship” puts that issue front and center by showing endangered animals held by the octopus. The octopus becomes a symbol of protection, showing how urgent it is for humans to step up and help.
You might come for the photos, but chances are, you’ll leave thinking more about our planet and the animals that live on it.
Why an Octopus?
You might be wondering: why choose an octopus to carry such a message?
Octopuses are known for being intelligent and adaptable. In this sculpture, the octopus becomes a symbol of care, intelligence, and strength. It’s shown cradling endangered animals as if it’s protecting them.
This surprising pairing of land and sea creatures also shows how all life on Earth is connected. Whether an animal lives in the jungle, the ocean, or the savannah, we’re all part of the same world—and we all need to help take care of it.
More Sculptures to Discover Nearby
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If you enjoy “The Arms of Friendship,” you’re in luck—there’s more to see in the same area. The “Wildlife Wonders” exhibit includes a few other playful but meaningful pieces by Gillie and Marc.
1. The Wild Table of Love
This sculpture shows humans and animals sitting down to share a meal. It’s a peaceful, happy scene that sends a powerful message: humans and animals can live in harmony. By placing the animals and people at the same table, the artists ask us to imagine a world where all species are treated with respect.
2. The Hippo Was Hungry To Try New Things With Rabbitwoman
This quirky and fun piece includes one of the artists’ signature characters, Rabbitwoman, sharing a moment with a hippo. It touches on the idea of stepping outside of your comfort zone and being open to new experiences—like learning more about animals and what they need to survive.
Together with the octopus, these sculptures make the plaza feel like an outdoor art gallery full of life, ideas, and hope.
A Great Spot for Photos and Reflection
The sculptures at South Oculus Plaza aren’t just beautiful—they’re also perfect for photos. You’ll often see people posing on the tentacles of the octopus or sitting at the animal-filled dinner table.
But even as people snap pictures, they’re also learning. That’s the power of this kind of public art. It catches your eye, makes you smile, and then gently opens your mind to bigger questions.
The Role of Public Art in NYC
New York City is no stranger to big, bold art. From Central Park to Times Square, the city is full of murals, sculptures, and installations that bring color and meaning to everyday life.
Public art like this plays a special role in the city:
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It’s accessible. You don’t need a ticket. You just show up and enjoy.
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It builds community. People gather, talk, and share experiences.
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It tells stories. In this case, the story is about animals, nature, and our responsibility to care for both.
With events like New York Fashion Week drawing visitors from all over the world, the city becomes a hub for creative expression. Art like “The Arms of Friendship” fits right in, adding to the city’s exciting mix of culture, style, and ideas.
When and Where to Visit
You can visit the “Wildlife Wonders” exhibition now through July 31, 2025. It’s located at South Oculus Plaza, near the World Trade Center in Lower Manhattan.
It’s easy to get to by subway or walking. Once you’re there, take your time exploring the sculptures, reading the signs, and snapping some great pictures.
Don’t Just Look—Get Involved
Art can be beautiful, fun, and Instagram-worthy—but it can also inspire change. After seeing “The Arms of Friendship,” you might feel moved to learn more about endangered animals or support a wildlife organization.
Here are a few things you can do next:
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Visit conservation websites to learn about endangered species.
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Share your photos online with messages of support for wildlife.
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Donate to or volunteer with groups that protect animals and nature.
Even small actions matter. Just talking about what you saw can open up someone else’s eyes to the issue.
Final Thoughts
“The Arms of Friendship” is one of those rare art pieces that’s both fun and deeply meaningful. It brings people together, invites play and reflection, and shines a light on an issue that affects us all.
Whether you’re a tourist, a local, an art lover, or just someone out for a walk—you’ll find something special at South Oculus Plaza. Don’t miss your chance to see it before the exhibition ends in 2025.
So next time you’re downtown, look for the giant bronze octopus. Sit on its tentacles. Snap a photo. Read about the animals. And remember: we all have a part to play in protecting the wonders of the wild.