Asbury Park’s iconic boardwalk has gained a striking new addition that has quickly become a must-see destination for locals and visitors alike. The large-scale sculpture, Mother & Baby Foxes, created by internationally acclaimed artist Bordalo II, transforms discarded plastic and everyday waste into a powerful public art statement, highlighting both environmental responsibility and community collaboration.
The work, prominently displayed at the southern end of the Third Avenue Pavilion, was developed over a five-year effort with the support of the Asbury Park Arts Council and the Wooden Walls Project. Bordalo II, known globally for creating art from the very materials threatening wildlife habitats, gathered a wide variety of items—from car parts and old toys to trash bins and broken household objects—to construct the intricate, towering fox figures. Each piece of discarded material represents the impact of overconsumption on natural ecosystems, turning environmental hazards into a visually compelling tribute to the creatures they endanger.
In interviews featured in the PBS digital documentary Painting Community: Asbury Park, Bordalo II describes public art as the most “democratic” form of creative expression. By placing this monumental sculpture in a publicly accessible space, the artist ensures that viewers from all walks of life can engage with the work without barriers. The project takes on additional resonance in Asbury Park, a city experiencing rapid gentrification, as it provides a platform for creative expression that is inclusive and community-centered.
The documentary also highlights the inspiration behind the foxes. During the 2020 lockdowns, a real fox family made their home in the remnants of the Ocean Grove pavilion, capturing the imagination of local residents. Bordalo II’s Mother & Baby Foxes immortalizes these animals, giving them a permanent presence on the boardwalk and reminding viewers of the delicate balance between urban life and nature. Residents, volunteers, and organizers share their perspectives in the film, emphasizing the collaborative effort that brought the sculpture to life.
Beyond its environmental message, the piece has become a cultural and tourist highlight for Asbury Park, drawing crowds during the holiday season and throughout the year. Visitors often pause to marvel at the scale and detail of the work, appreciating how everyday objects—once considered trash—have been transformed into an artistic celebration of life, resilience, and community.
The sculpture stands as a testament to the power of public art to inspire conversation, foster connection, and provoke reflection on the intersection of human activity and the natural world. The project is a shining example of how creativity and civic engagement can converge, leaving a lasting impression on the city and its visitors.
For more insight into art installations and cultural initiatives shaping New Jersey, explore ongoing coverage in the Art & Culture section of Explore New Jersey. Watch the latest Spotlight News Live and On-Demand here.
