https://www.navyyardgarden.org/art-installations/experience-the-bridge-of-joy
- Friday, August 1, 20255:00 AM
Saturday, July 31, 20278:00 PM - 1 Shipyard Park, Charlestown Navy YardCharlestown, MA 02129USA (map)
Experience the Bridge of Joy, a public art installation bringing large, joyful sculptures to Charlestown.
Installed to connect both sides of the Tobin Bridge—long a dividing line within the neighborhood—these three bronze works by internationally renowned artists Gillie and Marc were created to surprise, delight, and symbolically deepen Charlestown’s connection to the Navy Yard, and to each other as a community.
This project is presented by Navy Yard Garden & Art, with generous support from community sponsors and civic partners. On display through July 2027.
Meet the Sculptures
🐙 The Arms of Friendship
📍 Dry Dock 2, between the two large anchors
“This sculpture invites people to experience true awe… It cradles some of our planet’s most iconic and endangered creatures within its eight limbs.” — Gillie and Marc
This 36-foot-long, 7-ton bronze octopus—The Arms of Friendship—is the centerpiece. The sculpture holds endangered animals in each of its limbs, a powerful symbol of interconnection and care.
Crafted with meticulous detail and immense scale, this piece reflects the artists’ mission to enchant, educate, and inspire action for wildlife conservation.
Please enjoy up close, but do not climb.
🐘 The Wild Table of Love
📍 Under the Tobin Bridge at Lowney Way
“A symbolic banquet in bronze, where the table is set for both humans and animals.” — Gillie and Marc
Rabbitwoman and Dogman host a whimsical dinner party seated alongside ten endangered animals. Two open seats invite the public to join the table, offering a joyful moment of connection, care, and shared presence.
🦛 The Hippo Was Hungry to Try New Things
📍 Shipyard Park on the brick plaza near the MBTA ferry
“This sculptural artwork represents a poignant conversation between a hippo and Rabbitwoman… sharing her concerns over coffee and watermelons.” — Gillie and Marc
This sculpture reflects on habitat loss and the importance of empathy, featuring a quiet coffee moment between Rabbitwoman and her hippo friend. It’s a space to pause, sit, and reflect on our relationship with the natural world.
🎨 About the Artists
Gillie and Marc are a husband-and-wife artist duo known for creating large-scale public sculptures that invite connection, play, and reflection. Their work often features two characters—Rabbitwoman and Dogman—who represent diversity, compassion, and a deep respect for the natural world.
Through Bridge of Joy, the artists continue their mission of using public art to spark conversation and bring people together. Each sculpture invites a sense of connection and wonder, encouraging moments of pause, reflection, and discovery.
Their sculptures appear in public spaces around the world—including parks, city squares, and waterfronts—always blending storytelling and sculpture to create joyful moments in everyday life.
Learn more about Gillie & Marc
Keep Exploring
Follow @NavyYardGarden on Instagram for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and launch event details.
This installation is part of our mission to bring world-class public art into the everyday lives of Charlestown residents and visitors. Donate here to support future projects.
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