A pair of unusual visitors has taken up residence at Ninigret Park in Charlestown, part of an international art project that brings an important conservation message to South County. Paparazzi Rabbitwoman and Dogman, two interactive bronze sculptures by acclaimed British and Australian couple Gillie and Marc Schattner, have been installed at what was once an airfield. The sculptures mark the first stage of Animal Avenue, a new outdoor art experience that combines imaginative public art with a call to protect endangered wildlife.
Gillie and Marc are best known for their human-animal hybrid characters Rabbitwoman and Dogman, which have appeared in sculptures and exhibitions around the world. Inspired in part by the artists’ own relationship, the characters represent love, acceptance, diversity, and compassion. Unlike artwork displayed behind museum ropes, the sculptures are designed to be approached and enjoyed. Visitors are encouraged to pose with Rabbitwoman and Dogman and take photographs, and become part of the installation.
“South County has always been known for its spectacular beaches, outdoor recreation, and natural beauty,” says Louise Bishop, president of the South County Tourism Council, and the visionary who founded that other free art installation, Rhode Island’s Troll Trail. “With the addition of Gillie and Marc’s extraordinary sculptures, we’re creating another compelling reason for visitors to come to our region.” She adds that public art can inspire visitors, encourage conversation, and create memorable experiences. The Council worked with the Town of Charlestown to bring the sculptures to Ninigret Park, a partnership she credits with making the installation possible.
Titled “Animal Avenue,” the statues join a growing collection of outdoor artworks that have helped transform Ninigret Park into one of Rhode Island’s most distinctive cultural destinations. Nearby attractions include a striking moongate, a stone serpent that winds in and out of the sand, and two giant trolls, Erik Rock and Greta Granit, created by internationally known Danish recycling artist Thomas Dambo.
Rabbitwoman and Dogman will soon have company, says Faye Pantazopoulos, creative director of the South County Tourism Council. Three additional monumental bronze sculptures depicting endangered animals are expected to arrive later this fall. Together, the pieces will form part of Gillie and Marc’s internationally recognized conservation project, A Wild Race Against Time, an initiative that uses art to draw attention to vulnerable animal species and the urgency of protecting them.
Pantazopoulos says the public art drives tourism in the region, filling hotel rooms during the summer peak and off-season. “We see our hotel bookings go up in conjunction with the spike in visits to the park. We know people are coming, staying, and visiting the park to view the attractions there.”
The arrival of Animal Avenue expands South County’s growing reputation as a destination for public art while complementing the region’s beaches, forests, trails, farms, and recreational attractions. The project is also part of the Council’s effort to encourage year-round visitation, including beyond the traditional summer season. For now, visitors can meet Rabbitwoman and Dogman, explore Ninigret Park’s other sculptures, and get an early look at an attraction that will continue to draw visitors to the state. Learn more at SouthCountyRI.com.
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