New York: Sculpture commemorating alligator sewer delusion unveiled in Union Square Park

A “masterpiece” sculpture has been unveiled in New York City paying homage to one among its most well-known city legends – alligators dwelling within the sewers.

The public artwork set up includes a life-sized alligator on the again of a manhole cowl and attracts inspiration from what organisers known as a “century-old myth”.

Legend suggests New Yorkers as soon as deserted child alligators once they turned too giant to maintain as pets – with the story evolving into “tales of subterranean monsters” dwelling within the “underbelly” of town, officers mentioned.

The bronze sculpture, known as NYC Legend, was unveiled in Union Square Park by Swedish artist Alexander Klingspor and pays tribute to “New York City’s enduring capacity to adapt and survive” – a top quality “embodied by the alligator”.

Community organisation Union Square Partnership mentioned the work was “inspired by the resilience of both alligators and New Yorkers” and the “magnificent” sculpture merges historic mythological symbolism with fashionable city folklore.

Mr Klingspor mentioned: “Stories are the very backbone of human civilisation giving shape to our shared consciousness through sculptures, paintings, and architecture.

“This piece is a testomony to our timeless drive to seek out icons in nature, and to the bridge that delusion builds between the traditional and fashionable that also echoes at the moment.”

Anthony Perez, of New York City Parks, mentioned: “This sculpture is a beautiful representation of our enduring resilience as New Yorkers, and embodies one of the most famous urban legends about our city.

“Public artwork installations like this are one of many some ways we use our public parks to have a good time the tales and spirit that make our metropolis so distinctive.

“I’m so excited to see this sculpture take its place in iconic Union Square Park, where I’m sure it will surprise and delight both New Yorkers and visitors.”

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The sculpture in one among Manhattan’s hottest locations shall be on show for eight months till June 2024.

Joseph Douek, a member of the NYC Planning Commission, mentioned: “We take great pride in showcasing Klingspor’s masterpiece and are hopeful for its permanent installation following the exhibition period.”