Boston's Commonwealth Avenue is known for its historic brownstones and a firm resistance to change. Yet, a herd of 130 life-size elephant statues now lines the mall, creating a rare instance where the neighborhood welcomes a major visual shift.
These sculptures are the work of Indigenous artisans from India's Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The installation, known as The Great Elephant Migration, has drawn significant public attention and crowds to the tony Back Bay corridor.
Visitors are walking through the herd, taking photos, and interacting with the art in a space usually defined by its rigid preservation. The exhibit serves as a notable example of public art successfully entering a historic environment.
Local residents and tourists alike appear to appreciate the presence of the herd. While the Back Bay is typically slow to accept modifications to its landscape, this migration has found a home in the heart of the city.