8. The Beating Heart In Times Square

Last February and March, a large, pulsating, plastic heart sculpture sat in the heart of Times Square for Valentine’s Day season. Unsurprisingly called “HeartBeat,” the statue let pedestrians know that love was in the air. It was designed by the studio Stereotank and not only beat rhythmically, but could also light up at night. It encouraged passing lovers to drum the sculpture or use the different percussion instruments on the outside to create an interactive experience that unified the community. This piece won the Times Square Alliance’s annual design competition for a Valentine Heart Sculpture.

7. The French Bulldog In Midtown East

Photo via Wikimedia: Jakline

In 2011, an eight-foot tall statue of a French bulldog stood in front of the New York Palace Hotel. This colorful art installation, called “Doggy John,” was created by French artist Julien Marinetti, who specializes in dog sculptures.