Visitors to the Bruce Museum, Greenwich, CT, can now encounter a nearly 5,000-pound, 23-foot-long and 8.5-foot-tall reclining gorilla. “King Nyani” (Swahili for gorilla), the world’s largest bronze gorilla sculpture, offers visitors a unique interactive experience and raises awareness of the endangered species. Renowned public artists Gillie and Marc Schattner found inspiration for “King Nyani” on a trip to Uganda. During their visit, they were captivated by amale silverback gorilla’s kindness and compassion with his family. They vowed to rewrite the narrative of the violent, terrifying ape often conveyed in movies and acquaint people with the softer, gentler nature of the magnificent beasts.

The artists rendered their friendly ape lying down on his side with his legs slightly pulled up and his right arm curled as if hugging a child. His open hand invites visitors to sit and feel both his strength and serenity.

The artists created three editions of the King Nyani sculpture. The third edition is now in place at the Bruce Museum on long-term loan from an anonymous donor. The first edition is currently at the Brookfield Zoo Chicago, an King Nyani is a gentle giant and reaches out to invite connection. #KingNyani

Gillie (British, b. 1965) and Marc (Australian, b. 1961) Schattner
King Nyani (BIG), 2021, 3 / 3
Bronze
Private Collection

Video by Digital Video Productions @dvpmikeevans