Content warning: Discover the Apennine Colossus, a monumental 16th-century sculpture by Giambologna, hidden within the lush landscapes of Tuscany, Italy. This breathtaking masterpiece, standing over 10 meters tall, blends art and nature with its intricate design and hidde
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Tuscany, Italy, stands a towering statue that has captured the imagination of visitors for centuries.
The “Colosso dell’Appennino,” created by Flemish sculptor Jean de Boulogne, better known as Giambologna, is a breathtaking work of art that serves as a personification of the Apennine mountains. Completed in 1580, this colossal sculpture not only showcases Giambologna’s artistic prowess but also conceals a fascinating secret within its massive form.
Measuring a staggering 10.67 meters (36 feet) tall, the “Colosso dell’Appennino” is an impressive sight to behold. Giambologna crafted this larger-than-life statue to symbolize the strength and grandeur of the Apennine mountains, which span across the Italian peninsula.
Hidden Rooms within the Giant:
One of the most intriguing aspects of the “Colosso dell’Appennino” is the series of rooms concealed within the statue itself. These chambers, accessible via hidden entrances, offer a unique perspective on the sculpture and its surroundings.
Inside the Colossus lies a network of chambers, originally designed to hold fountains, fireplaces, and even dining areas. These hidden spaces reflect Giambologna’s dual mastery of art and architecture, turning the sculpture into a functional piece of the Villa di Pratolino estate.
A Lasting Legacy:
The “Colosso dell’Appennino” continues to be a beloved landmark in Tuscany, drawing tourists and art enthusiasts from around the world. As a testament to Giambologna’s incredible artistic talent, this awe-inspiring sculpture serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring beauty and significance of public art.
Giambologna’s “Colosso dell’Appennino” is a captivating fusion of art and engineering, offering a breathtaking tribute to the majesty of the Apennine mountains. As visitors explore the statue’s hidden chambers and admire its intricate details, they are reminded of the power of art to inspire wonder and create lasting connections with the natural world.
Have you ever visited the Apennine Colossus or other Renaissance landmarks? Share your experiences in the comments!
Sculptures You (probably) Didn’t Know Existed (30 Photos)
I love stumbling upon art that feels like a hidden gem—those incredible sculptures that stop you in your tracks and make you wonder, “How did I not know this existed?”
From massive figures seemingly rising from the earth to intricate works that play with gravity, these sculptures redefine what’s possible. Join me on a journey through 30 of the most amazing sculptures around the world, each with its own story and artistry that you probably didn’t know was out there.
1. The Statue of King Arthur, located in Tintagel, England, is a striking bronze sculpture by artist Rubin Eynon.
Erected in 2016, this statue stands on the cliffs of Tintagel Castle, a site steeped in Arthurian legend. The sculpture, named “Gallos” (meaning “power” in Cornish), depicts a cloaked and crowned King Arthur holding his sword, with his body appearing to merge with the landscape.
This artwork symbolizes the enduring power and mystery of the Arthurian legends that are deeply rooted in the area.
2. Albert György’s sculpture, Melancholy, captures the emptiness left by grief.
As John Maddox eloquently states, “We may look as if we carry on with our lives as before… but this emptiness is how we all feel… all the time.”
3. Christ of the Abyss is an extraordinary bronze statue created by Guido Galletti in 1954.
This unique piece rests on the seabed of the Mediterranean Sea, nestled between Camogli and Portofino on the Italian Riviera. Submerged beneath the azure waters, it continues to captivate divers and visitors with its serene and mystical presence.
4. This colossal sculpture was created nearly 450 years ago by Flemish sculptor Giambologna as a symbol of Italy’s Apennine mountains. Standing at nearly 14 meters (45 ft) tall, it was commissioned by Francesco de Medici, the Grand Duke of Tuscany, in 1579.
Positioned above a pond, the statue features a chamber in its head where Francesco would sit and fish at night. When a fire was lit inside, the Colossus’s eyes glowed red, and smoke billowed from its nostrils, creating a striking visual effect.
5. The Christ the Redeemer statue, standing atop Corcovado Mountain in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks.
This 30-meter (98 ft) tall statue, with arms stretching 28 meters (92 ft) wide, overlooks the city, symbolizing peace and welcoming all with open arms. Completed in 1931 and designed by French sculptor Paul Landowski and Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa, it has become a symbol of Christianity around the globe and an enduring image of Brazil.
6. Not the most amazing statue, but definitely an amazing story. In Istanbul, Turkey, they made a statue to honor the famous stray cat (Tombili) that used to sit in this position and watch the passers by.
One month after its installation the sculpture went missing. A comment from Turkey MP Tuncay Özkan: “They stole the Tombili statue. They are enemies of everything beautiful. All they know is hate, tears and war”. The statue was safely returned a short time later. More photos here.
7. This eagle sculpture is the world’s largest bird statue, created by Indian artist Rajiv Anchal.
Located at Jatayu Earth’s Center in Kerala, India, the sculpture took a decade to complete. Spanning 200 feet in length, 150 feet in width, and 70 feet in height, this colossal work of art depicts the mythical eagle Jatayu from the Indian epic, Ramayana.
8. This stunning marble sculpture, Ajax and Cassandra, was crafted in 2022 by renowned Italian contemporary artist Jago.
The piece beautifully captures the dramatic moment between the Greek hero Ajax and the Trojan priestess Cassandra.
9. Sendai Daikannon in Japan, the eighth-tallest statue in the world at 100 meters (330 ft).
Its serene, watchful presence overlooks the quiet urban landscape, creating a striking contrast between its massive spiritual form and the everyday city life below.
10. The great challenge by Nicolas Lavarenne. Antibes, French Riviera.
This striking bronze sculpture depicts a dynamic, elongated figure balancing on the edge of a cliff, arms outstretched as if preparing to leap into the vast blue sea below.
11. This is how the Statue of Unity in India looks like. It’s the tallest statue in the world: standing at 182 meters (597 ft) tall, it’s nearly three times the height of the Statue of Liberty.
This monumental statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a key leader in India’s independence, stands on a massive platform with an observation deck, emphasizing its grandeur and scale.
Portrays the profound emptiness experienced by migrants as they depart from their homeland—leaving their loved ones and their community behind—in pursuit of a better life:
13. The incredible statue of Neptune (Poseidon) in Gran Canaria, Spain
Statue of Neptune (Poseidon) in Gran Canaria, Spain, standing powerfully against the waves with a trident in hand. This impressive sculpture captures the mythical god of the sea in a commanding pose, evoking themes of strength and the majesty of the ocean.
14. Leshan Giant Buddha in China (800 AD) At 71 meters (233 ft) tall, this is the tallest pre-modern statue on Earth.
The Leshan Giant Buddha is carved into the cliffside in Leshan, Sichuan, China, overlooking the convergence of three rivers.
15. Close-up views of Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s marble statue of David, housed in the Galleria Borghese in Rome, Italy.
The dynamic sculpture captures the biblical hero mid-action, winding up to sling a stone. Bernini’s David is depicted with intense focus, furrowed brows, and clenched lips, conveying determination. The statue’s muscular arms and detailed hands grip the twisted ropes of the sling, showcasing Bernini’s skill in portraying tension and movement in marble. This statue contrasts Michelangelo’s famous David by capturing the hero in the midst of battle rather than in a calm, contemplative stance.
16. The Kiss of Death is a marble sculpture made in 1930 and found in Poblenou Cemetery, Barcelona.
This emotionally intense sculpture is renowned for its depiction of the delicate boundary between life and death, symbolized by Death’s kiss.
17. The Weight of Thought, bronze sculptures by Thomas Lerooy.
18. Victor Noir’s grave in Père-Lachaise cemetery, created by Patrick Magaud in 1984, has gained fame not for Noir’s journalistic work but for the legend surrounding his death and burial site.
Noir was a journalist shot dead, and his grave features a full-sized bronze statue of him lying down, as if recently shot. Over time, the statue became a fertility symbol.
Legend has it that kissing the statue on the lips, leaving a flower in Victor’s hat, and rubbing the genital area enhances fertility, improves one’s sex life, or helps find a husband within a year. This has led to the lips and trousers’ bulge on the statue becoming noticeably shiny from repeated contact.
In 2004, a fence was erected around the grave to prevent this practice, but public protest led to its removal. Victor Noir’s grave remains one of the most visited and talked-about monuments in Père-Lachaise.
19. The amazing handkerchief detail in this marble statue made by French sculptor Louis Philippe Mouchy in 1781.
Featuring a highly realistic handkerchief carved to appear as delicate lace, draped around the neck of the figure. The sculpture captures the fine details of the lacework, folds, and textures, showcasing Mouchy’s skill in replicating soft fabrics in hard marble, a testament to his mastery of the medium. The statue also displays the figure’s elaborate curls and formal attire, highlighting the elegance and refinement typical of 18th-century French sculpture.
20. The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa, a renowned Baroque sculpture by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, located in the Cornaro Chapel of Santa Maria della Vittoria in Rome.
This intricate marble sculpture depicts Saint Teresa of Ávila in a moment of religious ecstasy, her face expressing both pain and bliss as an angel holds a golden spear poised above her. Radiant golden rays crafted from gilded bronze descend from above, symbolizing divine light and adding dramatic intensity to the scene.
21. Luo Li Rong is a contemporary artist renowned for crafting hyper-realistic clay and bronze sculptures.
22. The Dignity statue in South Dakota, a stunning 50-foot-tall sculpture of a Native American woman draped in a star quilt.
The statue features a blend of metal and vibrant blue diamond shapes that catch the light, symbolizing the cultural heritage and spirit of the Lakota and Dakota people. The woman’s expression is serene, with her arms outstretched as if embracing the landscape around her.
24. Freedom Sculpture, Philadelphia
“I wanted to create a sculpture almost anyone, regardless of their background, could look at and instantly recognize that it is about the idea of struggling to break free. This sculpture is about the struggle for achievement of freedom through the creative process” — Zenos Frudakis:
25. The vision of Constantine by Bernini is arguably one of the most underrated sculpture in art history.
Gian Lorenzo revolutionized the art form by infusing unprecedented movement into stone.
26. The Mud Maid by Sue Hill, located in the Lost Garden of Heligan, Cornwall, UK.
Depending on the time of the year, the mud maid’s hair and clothes change when the seasonal plants and moss grow over the sculpture.
27. Departure, a stunning bronze sculpture by artist George Lundeen, highlighted by the frost.
The sculpture is subtly highlighted by a layer of frost, enhancing the scene with a sense of cold and quiet intimacy, as if capturing a moment of departure or waiting.
28. The Resting Boxer, crafted more than 2,000 years ago, is one of the most realistic sculptures ever made and one of the finest examples of bronze sculptures to have survived from the ancient world.
It was excavated in Rome in 1885. Its incredible features, such as its pose, gaze, broken nose, cauliflower ears, scarred face, and bruised eyes, have been enchanting the world ever since.
30. The mesmerizing details of The West Wind, a surreal marble sculpture by American artist Thomas Ridgeway Gould.
Gould’s masterpiece likely drew inspiration from Percy Shelley’s “Ode to the West Wind,” in which the west wind serves as an allegory for the cyclical nature of change and revolution:
Embracing the Journey: Bruno Catalano’s Vision In the vast and versatile world of sculpture, few artists can make a claim to a style so unique that it becomes instantly recognizable. Bruno Catalano is one such artist.
Content warning: These 12 murals go beyond walls—turning streets, alleys, and facades into unforgettable illusions and emotions. From reflective eyes to 3D rivers to seasonal portraits shaped by real trees, each piece shows why street art is more than just paint. Here's a
These 12 murals go beyond walls—turning streets, alleys, and facades into unforgettable illusions and emotions. From reflective eyes to 3D rivers to seasonal portraits shaped by real trees, each piece shows why street art is more than just paint. Here’s a collection of works that are absolutely amazing in both craft and placement.
1. Girl with Floral Afro — Vinie’s Mural in Paris, France
A playful mural of a girl in denim overalls with her eyes closed and hands in her pockets. Her hair is composed entirely of bright, colorful spheres that blend into the wall, resembling a wild floral afro. The mural uses the corner placement perfectly, extending above pedestrian level into full view. More!: Vinie’s Stunning Murals (25 Photos)
3. Four Seasons — Tribute to Kora by Bruno Althamer in Warsaw, Poland
Painted by Bruno Althamer as a tribute to Polish rock singer Kora (Olga Jackowska), this mural in Warsaw uniquely incorporates a living tree to form the hair of the portrait. The tree changes with the seasons—lush in summer, blossoming in spring, colorful in autumn, and bare in winter—creating a constantly evolving hairstyle for the mural. More!: Four Seasons Tribute to Kora in Warsaw, Poland
This large bird mural is painted directly on the corner of a building, perched realistically above utility boxes. The kingfisher’s feathers are detailed with sharp strokes of blue, orange, and white, giving it a sketched feel.
7. Elderly Kiss — Duek & Fresa Bogota in Tláhuac, Mexico
A mural of an elderly couple sharing an affectionate kiss, painted directly on the facade of a bright blue house. Every wrinkle, detail, and emotion is rendered with care and warmth.
8. The Gaze — Martín Ron in Buenos Aires, Argentina
A portrait of a woman in a cream-colored cloche hat, painted between two buildings in a narrow courtyard. The mural is monochromatic with soft yellow accents wrapping the figure, and perfectly integrates with the old brick textures. More!: 9 Martín Ron Murals That Redefine Urban Art
10. Horse in the Water — Nikolaj Arndt in Neustadt, Germany
This 3D street art features a brown horse emerging from a puddle, with a woman sitting in front, reaching to touch its face. The optical illusion makes the horse appear lifelike and part of the path.
Created for the Renace Street Art Festival 2025, this mural by SPURONE captures a quiet moment on the water. A man sits in a small boat, while a woman stands at its edge, both lost in thought. The reflections in the painted surface merge with the building’s windows, turning architecture into part of the story — stillness, distance, and memory all floating together beneath a soft light.
12. La Guinguette — Patrick Commecy in Brives-Charensac, France
Patrick Commecy’s La Guinguette transforms a narrow building façade into a charming café scene. The painted storefront glows in blue and gold, with a man reading a newspaper at a checkered table, a bartender behind the counter, and a woman leaning from a balcony above. Every detail — from bottles and signs to the flowered window boxes — deepens the illusion of a lively local moment frozen in paint.
Patrick Commecy: The era of Saturday night dances, fried food accompanied by the local “Verveine Authentique,” and a nod to Joseph Servant, founder of the Twinning Committee in 1987.
11 Beautiful Artworks That Seem to Grow From Nature
Some artworks don’t just sit in nature—they become part of it. Around the world, artists are crafting sculptures and murals that seamlessly merge with their surroundings, using trees, vines, and landscapes as living elements of their work. These 11 pieces don’t fight against nature; they grow with it.
From giant figures emerging from forests to street art that transforms urban greenery into playful illusions, these eight stunning creations prove that art and nature can exist in perfect harmony.
1. “Sleeping Child” by El Decertor (Imbabura, Ecuador)
A mural by El Decertor in Imbabura, Ecuador, depicting a young child sleeping against a concrete wall, with creeping ivy blending into the painting as a natural blanket.
2. “UMI” by Daniel Popper (Illinois, USA)
“UMI” by Daniel Popper at the outdoor tree museum The Morton Arboretum in Illinois, USA—an intricate wooden sculpture of a woman with tree roots weaving through her body, set in a green landscape.
A beautiful example of accidental nature-inspired art—kindergarten children dropped seeds into sidewalk cracks, leading to a spontaneous floral pathway.
6. “Nature Rings” by Spencer Byles (Deep Forest, France)
A series of woven circular sculptures by Spencer Byles made from natural branches, blending seamlessly with the surrounding forest.
7. Willow Archer by Anna & The Willow (UK)
A woven willow sculpture of a female archer by Anna & The Willow, set against a wooded path.
8. Wire Mermaid by Martin Debenham (UK)
A wire sculpture by Martin Debenham of a mermaid sitting on a rock, with the intricate metalwork mimicking flowing water.
9. Snake in the Green — Hyères, France
A plain gray cinderblock wall in a hidden grove was completely transformed into a lifelike snake by street artist Rest4. The viper, rendered in vibrant greens, blues, and yellows, emerges from the shadows of the forest floor. The before-and-after framing reveals the power of imagination to awaken forgotten spaces.
Land artist Jon Foreman created this delicate, wave-like gradient in a woodland clearing using carefully arranged leaves. Starting in green and fading to deep orange, the sculpture blends with the forest floor in color, shape, and motion—appearing to ripple like wind through grass. More by Jon Foreman: 9 Leaf Sculptures That Stir the Soul in the Forest (Art by Jon Foreman)
11. Florinda Camila — “WA” Marko Franco Domenak in Lima, Peru
This creative mural cleverly incorporates a real bougainvillea bush as the hair of a painted woman. A monarch butterfly completes the peaceful scene, adding movement to this blend of paint and nature.
Content warning: From monumental root sculptures to vibrant murals and intricate land art, these eight artworks transform public spaces in unforgettable ways. Featuring creations by Daniel Popper, Klaus Klinger, Jon Foreman, Cristian Blanxer, The Highness, Flow Graffiti,
From sculptures woven with roots in Chicago to surrealist murals in Germany and delicate land art on UK shores, these works show the incredible range of creativity found in public spaces. This collection brings together emotional sculptures, layered murals, natural installations, and striking portraits — each piece transforming its surroundings into something unforgettable.
A monumental figure crafted from wood and roots, with hands gently opening the chest as if revealing an inner world. The sculpture blends natural textures with a calm, meditative expression, placed in a green landscape. More!: “UMI” Sculpture by Daniel Popper in Lisle, Illinois
2. Tor zu Flingern — Klaus Klinger in Düsseldorf, Germany
A building facade covered in layered scenes: oversized faces, bicyclists, cityscapes, and fantastical figures blend together in a dreamlike sequence. Painted stairs extend into the real street, making passersby part of the artwork. The woman and the dog really live in the house and the mural is called “Tor zu Flingern”.
3. Fluidus — Jon Foreman in Wales, UK
Curved lines of pebbles arranged on a sandy beach form a rhythmic wave pattern. Each stone is placed to create a sense of movement, with colors shifting from dark to light across the design. More by Jon Foreman!: Stone By Stone (19 Photos)
Jon Foreman: Yes it looks like a jellyfish, no its not meant to be one. I’m not trying to suppress any imagination but for me I’m essentially trying to create something that doesn’t yet exist so that attachment to something that does exist gets on my nerves haha also feels like its oversimplifying the work a bit… But call it what you want haha!
4. World goal 9 — Cristian Blanxer in Aarhus, Denmark
A mural depicting the profile of a woman tilting her head back, inside which a street scene is painted. The composition creates a layered perspective, blending portraiture with city architecture. More!: 6 Murals by Cristian Blanxer and Victor García Repo
5. Giant Pigeon — The Highness in Stockholm, Sweden
A hyper-detailed mural of a pigeon fills the wall, painted with iridescent feathers and lifelike texture. The piece elevates a common urban bird into a monumental presence.
A striking portrait of a woman in traditional clothing, holding a sword with a white dragon behind her. Surrounded by flowers and bold patterns, the mural combines cultural symbolism with detailed realism.
7. The Weight of Grief — Celeste Roberge in the USA
A crouching human figure formed from a steel framework filled with large stones. The work conveys heaviness and endurance, with the rocks serving as both structure and burden. More like this: The Weight We Carry (8 Photos)
8. Willow Archer — Anna The Willow in the UK
A life-sized figure of an archer sculpted from woven willow branches, standing in a forest clearing. The natural material creates flowing lines that resemble both a dress and the pull of the bow.
9. Guardianes del Horizonte — Moxaico in Caspe, Spain
A large mural showing three birds inside a circular frame: an owl, a small songbird and a vulture. The animals are painted in warm yellow tones against a black background, with fine floral line work surrounding them.
A monochrome portrait painted on a decaying interior wall. The artwork shows the side profile of an elderly man with closed eyes, deep wrinkles and a long beard. The peeling paint and broken ceiling become part of the scene.
These 12 murals go beyond walls—turning streets, alleys, and facades into unforgettable illusions and emotions. From reflective eyes to 3D rivers to seasonal portraits shaped by real trees, each piece shows why street art is more than just paint. Here’s a collection of works that are absolutely amazing in both craft and placement.
1. Girl with Floral Afro — Vinie’s Mural in Paris, France
A playful mural of a girl in denim overalls with her eyes closed and hands in her pockets. Her hair is composed entirely of bright, colorful spheres that blend into the wall, resembling a wild floral afro. The mural uses the corner placement perfectly, extending above pedestrian level into full view. More!: Vinie’s Stunning Murals (25 Photos)
3. Four Seasons — Tribute to Kora by Bruno Althamer in Warsaw, Poland
Painted by Bruno Althamer as a tribute to Polish rock singer Kora (Olga Jackowska), this mural in Warsaw uniquely incorporates a living tree to form the hair of the portrait. The tree changes with the seasons—lush in summer, blossoming in spring, colorful in autumn, and bare in winter—creating a constantly evolving hairstyle for the mural. More!: Four Seasons Tribute to Kora in Warsaw, Poland
This large bird mural is painted directly on the corner of a building, perched realistically above utility boxes. The kingfisher’s feathers are detailed with sharp strokes of blue, orange, and white, giving it a sketched feel.
7. Elderly Kiss — Duek & Fresa Bogota in Tláhuac, Mexico
A mural of an elderly couple sharing an affectionate kiss, painted directly on the facade of a bright blue house. Every wrinkle, detail, and emotion is rendered with care and warmth.
8. The Gaze — Martín Ron in Buenos Aires, Argentina
A portrait of a woman in a cream-colored cloche hat, painted between two buildings in a narrow courtyard. The mural is monochromatic with soft yellow accents wrapping the figure, and perfectly integrates with the old brick textures. More!: 9 Martín Ron Murals That Redefine Urban Art
10. Horse in the Water — Nikolaj Arndt in Neustadt, Germany
This 3D street art features a brown horse emerging from a puddle, with a woman sitting in front, reaching to touch its face. The optical illusion makes the horse appear lifelike and part of the path.
Created for the Renace Street Art Festival 2025, this mural by SPURONE captures a quiet moment on the water. A man sits in a small boat, while a woman stands at its edge, both lost in thought. The reflections in the painted surface merge with the building’s windows, turning architecture into part of the story — stillness, distance, and memory all floating together beneath a soft light.
12. La Guinguette — Patrick Commecy in Brives-Charensac, France
Patrick Commecy’s La Guinguette transforms a narrow building façade into a charming café scene. The painted storefront glows in blue and gold, with a man reading a newspaper at a checkered table, a bartender behind the counter, and a woman leaning from a balcony above. Every detail — from bottles and signs to the flowered window boxes — deepens the illusion of a lively local moment frozen in paint.
Patrick Commecy: The era of Saturday night dances, fried food accompanied by the local “Verveine Authentique,” and a nod to Joseph Servant, founder of the Twinning Committee in 1987.
Content warning: Some artworks don’t just sit in nature—they become part of it. Around the world, artists are crafting sculptures and murals that seamlessly merge with their surroundings, using trees, vines, and landscapes as living elements of their work. These 11 pieces
Some artworks don’t just sit in nature—they become part of it. Around the world, artists are crafting sculptures and murals that seamlessly merge with their surroundings, using trees, vines, and landscapes as living elements of their work. These 11 pieces don’t fight against nature; they grow with it.
From giant figures emerging from forests to street art that transforms urban greenery into playful illusions, these eight stunning creations prove that art and nature can exist in perfect harmony.
1. “Sleeping Child” by El Decertor (Imbabura, Ecuador)
A mural by El Decertor in Imbabura, Ecuador, depicting a young child sleeping against a concrete wall, with creeping ivy blending into the painting as a natural blanket.
2. “UMI” by Daniel Popper (Illinois, USA)
“UMI” by Daniel Popper at the outdoor tree museum The Morton Arboretum in Illinois, USA—an intricate wooden sculpture of a woman with tree roots weaving through her body, set in a green landscape.
A beautiful example of accidental nature-inspired art—kindergarten children dropped seeds into sidewalk cracks, leading to a spontaneous floral pathway.
6. “Nature Rings” by Spencer Byles (Deep Forest, France)
A series of woven circular sculptures by Spencer Byles made from natural branches, blending seamlessly with the surrounding forest.
7. Willow Archer by Anna & The Willow (UK)
A woven willow sculpture of a female archer by Anna & The Willow, set against a wooded path.
8. Wire Mermaid by Martin Debenham (UK)
A wire sculpture by Martin Debenham of a mermaid sitting on a rock, with the intricate metalwork mimicking flowing water.
9. Snake in the Green — Hyères, France
A plain gray cinderblock wall in a hidden grove was completely transformed into a lifelike snake by street artist Rest4. The viper, rendered in vibrant greens, blues, and yellows, emerges from the shadows of the forest floor. The before-and-after framing reveals the power of imagination to awaken forgotten spaces.
Land artist Jon Foreman created this delicate, wave-like gradient in a woodland clearing using carefully arranged leaves. Starting in green and fading to deep orange, the sculpture blends with the forest floor in color, shape, and motion—appearing to ripple like wind through grass. More by Jon Foreman: 9 Leaf Sculptures That Stir the Soul in the Forest (Art by Jon Foreman)
11. Florinda Camila — “WA” Marko Franco Domenak in Lima, Peru
This creative mural cleverly incorporates a real bougainvillea bush as the hair of a painted woman. A monarch butterfly completes the peaceful scene, adding movement to this blend of paint and nature.
Public art can make boring places feel special and exciting. It surprises us, gets us thinking, and helps us see the world in a new way. Some sculptures are made to fit perfectly into their surroundings, mixing art and nature in creative ways.
Here, you’ll see 9 amazing sculptures from around the world. These artworks turn simple ideas into something incredible. From a giant clothespin pinching the ground to a zipper opening a stream, these pieces show how art can be surprising and fun.
1. Clothespin Sculpture by Mehmet Ali Uysal in Belgium
In a peaceful park near Liège, Belgium, there’s a giant clothespin sculpture that looks like it’s pinching the ground. It was created by Turkish artist Mehmet Ali Uysal. This artwork turns a simple everyday object into something huge and fun to look at.
2. The Caring Hand by Eva Oertli and Beat Huber in Glarus, Switzerland
In Glarus, Switzerland, “The Caring Hand” by artists Eva Oertli and Beat Huber shows a giant stone hand rising from the ground, gently holding a tree. The sculpture blends perfectly with its surroundings, symbolizing care and the connection between people and nature.
3. Shuttlecocks by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen in Kansas City
On the lawn of The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City, Missouri, you’ll find giant badminton birdies scattered around. These sculptures, called “Shuttlecocks”, were created by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen. They look like someone started a huge game of badminton and left the birdies behind. Each birdie is 18 feet tall and weighs over 5,000 pounds.
4. Window and Ladder by Leandro Erlich
There’s a strange sculpture by Leandro Erlich called “Window and Ladder – Too Late for Help.” It shows a tall white ladder leading to a brick wall with an open window, floating above a field.
5. Give by Lorenzo Quinn
“Give” by Italian artist Lorenzo Quinn. It shows two giant hands gently holding a growing tree, symbolizing care and responsibility for nature.
6. Giant Slingshot Bench by Artist Cornelia Konrads
In a scenic park, German artist Cornelia Konrads built a fun and creative sculpture called “Giant Slingshot Bench.” It’s a wooden bench that looks like it’s been launched into place by two giant tree branches shaped like a slingshot, complete with bright red straps.
7. Safety Pin Sculpture by Claes Oldenburg
At the de Young Museum in San Francisco, there’s a giant “Safety Pin” sculpture created by artist Claes Oldenburg. It turns an ordinary safety pin into something huge and exciting.
8. Zipper Sculpture by Yasuhiro Suzuki
In Tokyo, Japan, there’s a unique “Zipper” sculpture by artist Yasuhiro Suzuki. It looks like a giant zipper opening up the earth, showing a stream of water flowing underneath.
9. Hallow — Daniel Popper in Lisle, Illinois, USA
A monumental wooden sculpture of a woman gently opens her chest to reveal an empty space within. Surrounded by flowering trees, the piece conveys a sense of calm and introspection.
Content warning: I love stumbling upon art that feels like a hidden gem—those incredible sculptures that stop you in your tracks and make you wonder, “How did I not know this existed?” From massive figures seemingly rising from the earth to intricate works that play with
I love stumbling upon art that feels like a hidden gem—those incredible sculptures that stop you in your tracks and make you wonder, “How did I not know this existed?”
From massive figures seemingly rising from the earth to intricate works that play with gravity, these sculptures redefine what’s possible. Join me on a journey through 30 of the most amazing sculptures around the world, each with its own story and artistry that you probably didn’t know was out there.
1. The Statue of King Arthur, located in Tintagel, England, is a striking bronze sculpture by artist Rubin Eynon.
Erected in 2016, this statue stands on the cliffs of Tintagel Castle, a site steeped in Arthurian legend. The sculpture, named “Gallos” (meaning “power” in Cornish), depicts a cloaked and crowned King Arthur holding his sword, with his body appearing to merge with the landscape.
This artwork symbolizes the enduring power and mystery of the Arthurian legends that are deeply rooted in the area.
2. Albert György’s sculpture, Melancholy, captures the emptiness left by grief.
As John Maddox eloquently states, “We may look as if we carry on with our lives as before… but this emptiness is how we all feel… all the time.”
3. Christ of the Abyss is an extraordinary bronze statue created by Guido Galletti in 1954.
This unique piece rests on the seabed of the Mediterranean Sea, nestled between Camogli and Portofino on the Italian Riviera. Submerged beneath the azure waters, it continues to captivate divers and visitors with its serene and mystical presence.
4. This colossal sculpture was created nearly 450 years ago by Flemish sculptor Giambologna as a symbol of Italy’s Apennine mountains. Standing at nearly 14 meters (45 ft) tall, it was commissioned by Francesco de Medici, the Grand Duke of Tuscany, in 1579.
Positioned above a pond, the statue features a chamber in its head where Francesco would sit and fish at night. When a fire was lit inside, the Colossus’s eyes glowed red, and smoke billowed from its nostrils, creating a striking visual effect.
5. The Christ the Redeemer statue, standing atop Corcovado Mountain in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks.
This 30-meter (98 ft) tall statue, with arms stretching 28 meters (92 ft) wide, overlooks the city, symbolizing peace and welcoming all with open arms. Completed in 1931 and designed by French sculptor Paul Landowski and Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa, it has become a symbol of Christianity around the globe and an enduring image of Brazil.
6. Not the most amazing statue, but definitely an amazing story. In Istanbul, Turkey, they made a statue to honor the famous stray cat (Tombili) that used to sit in this position and watch the passers by.
One month after its installation the sculpture went missing. A comment from Turkey MP Tuncay Özkan: “They stole the Tombili statue. They are enemies of everything beautiful. All they know is hate, tears and war”. The statue was safely returned a short time later. More photos here.
7. This eagle sculpture is the world’s largest bird statue, created by Indian artist Rajiv Anchal.
Located at Jatayu Earth’s Center in Kerala, India, the sculpture took a decade to complete. Spanning 200 feet in length, 150 feet in width, and 70 feet in height, this colossal work of art depicts the mythical eagle Jatayu from the Indian epic, Ramayana.
8. This stunning marble sculpture, Ajax and Cassandra, was crafted in 2022 by renowned Italian contemporary artist Jago.
The piece beautifully captures the dramatic moment between the Greek hero Ajax and the Trojan priestess Cassandra.
9. Sendai Daikannon in Japan, the eighth-tallest statue in the world at 100 meters (330 ft).
Its serene, watchful presence overlooks the quiet urban landscape, creating a striking contrast between its massive spiritual form and the everyday city life below.
10. The great challenge by Nicolas Lavarenne. Antibes, French Riviera.
This striking bronze sculpture depicts a dynamic, elongated figure balancing on the edge of a cliff, arms outstretched as if preparing to leap into the vast blue sea below.
11. This is how the Statue of Unity in India looks like. It’s the tallest statue in the world: standing at 182 meters (597 ft) tall, it’s nearly three times the height of the Statue of Liberty.
This monumental statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a key leader in India’s independence, stands on a massive platform with an observation deck, emphasizing its grandeur and scale.
Portrays the profound emptiness experienced by migrants as they depart from their homeland—leaving their loved ones and their community behind—in pursuit of a better life:
13. The incredible statue of Neptune (Poseidon) in Gran Canaria, Spain
Statue of Neptune (Poseidon) in Gran Canaria, Spain, standing powerfully against the waves with a trident in hand. This impressive sculpture captures the mythical god of the sea in a commanding pose, evoking themes of strength and the majesty of the ocean.
14. Leshan Giant Buddha in China (800 AD) At 71 meters (233 ft) tall, this is the tallest pre-modern statue on Earth.
The Leshan Giant Buddha is carved into the cliffside in Leshan, Sichuan, China, overlooking the convergence of three rivers.
15. Close-up views of Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s marble statue of David, housed in the Galleria Borghese in Rome, Italy.
The dynamic sculpture captures the biblical hero mid-action, winding up to sling a stone. Bernini’s David is depicted with intense focus, furrowed brows, and clenched lips, conveying determination. The statue’s muscular arms and detailed hands grip the twisted ropes of the sling, showcasing Bernini’s skill in portraying tension and movement in marble. This statue contrasts Michelangelo’s famous David by capturing the hero in the midst of battle rather than in a calm, contemplative stance.
16. The Kiss of Death is a marble sculpture made in 1930 and found in Poblenou Cemetery, Barcelona.
This emotionally intense sculpture is renowned for its depiction of the delicate boundary between life and death, symbolized by Death’s kiss.
17. The Weight of Thought, bronze sculptures by Thomas Lerooy.
18. Victor Noir’s grave in Père-Lachaise cemetery, created by Patrick Magaud in 1984, has gained fame not for Noir’s journalistic work but for the legend surrounding his death and burial site.
Noir was a journalist shot dead, and his grave features a full-sized bronze statue of him lying down, as if recently shot. Over time, the statue became a fertility symbol.
Legend has it that kissing the statue on the lips, leaving a flower in Victor’s hat, and rubbing the genital area enhances fertility, improves one’s sex life, or helps find a husband within a year. This has led to the lips and trousers’ bulge on the statue becoming noticeably shiny from repeated contact.
In 2004, a fence was erected around the grave to prevent this practice, but public protest led to its removal. Victor Noir’s grave remains one of the most visited and talked-about monuments in Père-Lachaise.
19. The amazing handkerchief detail in this marble statue made by French sculptor Louis Philippe Mouchy in 1781.
Featuring a highly realistic handkerchief carved to appear as delicate lace, draped around the neck of the figure. The sculpture captures the fine details of the lacework, folds, and textures, showcasing Mouchy’s skill in replicating soft fabrics in hard marble, a testament to his mastery of the medium. The statue also displays the figure’s elaborate curls and formal attire, highlighting the elegance and refinement typical of 18th-century French sculpture.
20. The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa, a renowned Baroque sculpture by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, located in the Cornaro Chapel of Santa Maria della Vittoria in Rome.
This intricate marble sculpture depicts Saint Teresa of Ávila in a moment of religious ecstasy, her face expressing both pain and bliss as an angel holds a golden spear poised above her. Radiant golden rays crafted from gilded bronze descend from above, symbolizing divine light and adding dramatic intensity to the scene.
21. Luo Li Rong is a contemporary artist renowned for crafting hyper-realistic clay and bronze sculptures.
22. The Dignity statue in South Dakota, a stunning 50-foot-tall sculpture of a Native American woman draped in a star quilt.
The statue features a blend of metal and vibrant blue diamond shapes that catch the light, symbolizing the cultural heritage and spirit of the Lakota and Dakota people. The woman’s expression is serene, with her arms outstretched as if embracing the landscape around her.
24. Freedom Sculpture, Philadelphia
“I wanted to create a sculpture almost anyone, regardless of their background, could look at and instantly recognize that it is about the idea of struggling to break free. This sculpture is about the struggle for achievement of freedom through the creative process” — Zenos Frudakis:
25. The vision of Constantine by Bernini is arguably one of the most underrated sculpture in art history.
Gian Lorenzo revolutionized the art form by infusing unprecedented movement into stone.
26. The Mud Maid by Sue Hill, located in the Lost Garden of Heligan, Cornwall, UK.
Depending on the time of the year, the mud maid’s hair and clothes change when the seasonal plants and moss grow over the sculpture.
27. Departure, a stunning bronze sculpture by artist George Lundeen, highlighted by the frost.
The sculpture is subtly highlighted by a layer of frost, enhancing the scene with a sense of cold and quiet intimacy, as if capturing a moment of departure or waiting.
28. The Resting Boxer, crafted more than 2,000 years ago, is one of the most realistic sculptures ever made and one of the finest examples of bronze sculptures to have survived from the ancient world.
It was excavated in Rome in 1885. Its incredible features, such as its pose, gaze, broken nose, cauliflower ears, scarred face, and bruised eyes, have been enchanting the world ever since.
30. The mesmerizing details of The West Wind, a surreal marble sculpture by American artist Thomas Ridgeway Gould.
Gould’s masterpiece likely drew inspiration from Percy Shelley’s “Ode to the West Wind,” in which the west wind serves as an allegory for the cyclical nature of change and revolution:
The Silent Giant of 1580: A Stone Guardian Weathered by Centuries in Italy
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Tuscany, Italy, stands a towering statue that has captured the imagination of visitors for centuries.
The “Colosso dell’Appennino,” created by Flemish sculptor Jean de Boulogne, better known as Giambologna, is a breathtaking work of art that serves as a personification of the Apennine mountains. Completed in 1580, this colossal sculpture not only showcases Giambologna’s artistic prowess but also conceals a fascinating secret within its massive form.
Measuring a staggering 10.67 meters (36 feet) tall, the “Colosso dell’Appennino” is an impressive sight to behold. Giambologna crafted this larger-than-life statue to symbolize the strength and grandeur of the Apennine mountains, which span across the Italian peninsula.
Hidden Rooms within the Giant:
One of the most intriguing aspects of the “Colosso dell’Appennino” is the series of rooms concealed within the statue itself. These chambers, accessible via hidden entrances, offer a unique perspective on the sculpture and its surroundings.
Inside the Colossus lies a network of chambers, originally designed to hold fountains, fireplaces, and even dining areas. These hidden spaces reflect Giambologna’s dual mastery of art and architecture, turning the sculpture into a functional piece of the Villa di Pratolino estate.
A Lasting Legacy:
The “Colosso dell’Appennino” continues to be a beloved landmark in Tuscany, drawing tourists and art enthusiasts from around the world. As a testament to Giambologna’s incredible artistic talent, this awe-inspiring sculpture serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring beauty and significance of public art.
Giambologna’s “Colosso dell’Appennino” is a captivating fusion of art and engineering, offering a breathtaking tribute to the majesty of the Apennine mountains. As visitors explore the statue’s hidden chambers and admire its intricate details, they are reminded of the power of art to inspire wonder and create lasting connections with the natural world.
Have you ever visited the Apennine Colossus or other Renaissance landmarks? Share your experiences in the comments!
Embracing the Journey: Bruno Catalano’s Vision In the vast and versatile world of sculpture, few artists can make a claim to a style so unique that it becomes instantly recognizable. Bruno Catalano is one such artist.
"Instead of using actual spray cans, some artists are just cleaning dirt off of certain areas to make their masterpieces and they are calling it reverse graffiti"
(This one is by Paul 'Moose' Curtis of the Reverse Graffiti Project )
Artworks by Arkadiusz Andrejkow in Komańcza, Poland -- Dwa murale upolowane pod mostem kolejowym w Komańczy (woj. podkarpackie), namalowane przez Arkadiusza Andrejkowa. Fot. Joanna Klima
"Listen to your soul" by Pariz One in Lisbon, Portugal -- #mural upolowany w Lizbonie przy ul. Rodrigues de Faria 103, namalowany w ramach festiwalu MURO LX 2023 przez artystę znanego jako Pariz One. Fot. Joanna Klima
Mural by Julian Nowicki in Bydgoszcz (Poland) dedicated to Marian Rejewski, a Polish mathematician and cryptologist who in late 1932 reconstructed the sight-unseen Nazi German military Enigma cipher machine -- „Odszyfrowany Rejewski“, czyli #mural upamiętniający Mariana Rejewskiego, matematyka i kryptologa, który w 1932 r. złamał szyfr Enigmy, najważniejszej maszyny szyfrującej używanej przez hitlerowskie Niemcy. Wielkoformatowy portret zdobi ścianę kamienicy przy ul. Gdańskiej 10 w Bydgoszczy. Powstał w 2017 r., a zaprojektował go i wykonał Julian Nowicki. Fot. @xlenka@pol.social
