8. Tom Otterness in the East River off Roosevelt Island
While walking along the water’s edge on Roosevelt Island, you may notice little green sculptures poking out of the East River. Installed in 1996, these sculptures comprise Tom Otterness’ “The Marriage of Money and Real Estate,” symbolizing wealth inequality within New York City.
This series of three sculptures depicts rather comedic scenes of a coin being attacked by a man in a top hat, a lobster with a dollar sign attacking a house in a skirt, and a house and a coin joined in marriage. Otterness’ whimsical work is also displayed in New York locations like in the 14 Street-8th Avenue subway station. While walking around Roosevelt Island, also check out the smallpox hospital and see our photos from inside!