Wildlife Wonders: Gillie and Marc’s Mesmerizing Animal Sculptures at the Oculus

Step into the heart of Manhattan and immerse yourself in a world where art and conservation meet. Husband-and-wife artistic duo, Gillie and Marc Schattner, have brought their lifelong passion for wildlife and their mission to protect animals to the Oculus Plaza at the World Trade Center. Their latest exhibit, "Wildlife Wonders," is a breathtaking celebration of endangered species, created to inspire connection, responsibility, and love for the natural world.

For over 30 years, Gillie and Marc have captivated audiences with sculptures that explore the deep spiritual bond between humans and animals. Best known for their iconic characters, Rabbitwoman and Dogman, their art transcends the ordinary and invites reflection. Gillie’s childhood in Zambia, where she witnessed the tragic loss of an elephant at the tender age of nine, ignited her lifelong mission to protect wildlife. Marc’s time spent learning about chimpanzees in Tanzania in his 20s only deepened their shared commitment to helping vulnerable species.

A Closer Look at the Sculptures

The exhibit features three powerful installations, each filled with beauty, meaning, and a call to action:

1. "The Wild Table of Love" This enchanting bronze sculpture brings together 10 extinct or critically endangered animals around a dining table, hosted by Dogman himself. With seats left empty for human guests, this piece symbolizes the invitation for us all to join the fight to protect our planet’s incredible biodiversity.

2. "The Arms of Friendship" At the center of this display is the world's largest octopus, a striking 36-foot-long, 7-ton marvel whose tentacles embrace endangered species like rhinos and zebras. Aptly named "The Arms of Friendship," this sculpture reminds us of the interconnectedness of all living creatures and the need for us to extend our care and compassion.

3. "The Hippo Was Hungry to Try New Things with Rabbitwoman" Playful yet meaningful, this piece features Rabbitwoman sharing an adventurous moment with a hippo, encapsulating the Schattners' philosophy of embracing change and nurturing harmony across species.

Art for a Better Tomorrow

Gillie and Marc’s dedication to creating art for a better world runs deep. In 2017, they traveled to Kenya’s Ol Pejeta Conservancy to study the last three Northern White Rhinos on Earth. This profound experience shaped much of their work and furthered their mission to bring attention to species on the brink of extinction.

The "Wildlife Wonders" exhibit is on display until July 31, 2025, offering New Yorkers and visitors a rare chance to engage with art that speaks to our collective responsibility to protect the natural world. Playful, poignant, and undeniably powerful, these sculptures are a must-see for anyone who believes in a brighter future for all living beings.

Plan Your Visit

Stop by the Oculus Plaza at the World Trade Center and experience the magic of Gillie and Marc’s work firsthand. Let these monumental sculptures remind you of the beauty, fragility, and wonder of wildlife—and the role we all play in ensuring its survival.