Silverstein Properties unveils sculpture installation at 3 World Trade Center

March 11, 2025 - Owners Developers & Managers
Photo Credit: Spencer Lasky

Manhattan, NY Silverstein Properties unveiled a specially commissioned new sculpture by acclaimed architect and artist Frank Gehry in the lobby of 3 World Trade Center (WTC). Adding to the city’s public art scene, the recently crafted work – titled ‘Untitled’ ‘Fish on Fire, Greenwich St. 2024’ – marks a historic moment as the largest suspended fish sculpture ever created by Frank Gehry, whose career spans more than six decades and four continents.

The 20 ft. by 7 ft. copper installation – which appears to float within 3 WTC’s triple-height lobby – was commissioned specifically for the site, and has been one year in the making, part of a collaboration between Silverstein Properties chairman Larry Silverstein, Gehry and Gagosian. It is the largest single-fish sculpture ever made by Gehry, and the only one on display in New York City. This particular work represents the culmination of Gehry’s long-standing exploration of the fish form, which has been central to his artistic practice since the 1980s. The sculpture is illuminated from within to create a warm, russet glow that complements the lobby environment Silverstein has cultivated at 3 WTC. The exterior is made of intricate scales shaped like feathers and leaves, a subtle acknowledgment of the form’s origins in nature. As the piece slowly rotates, it casts ever-changing patterns of light and shadow throughout the space, creating an immersive experience for visitors and tenants alike.

Photo Credit: Spencer Lasky

The installation of this piece further solidifies the World Trade Center as a premier cultural destination. Silverstein Properties’ latest addition to its curated collection of public art demonstrates the company’s commitment to integrating museum-quality artwork into public spaces. Under the leadership of chairman Larry Silverstein, his wife Klara, and CEO Lisa Silverstein, the company has infused its commercial and residential spaces with works that celebrate artistic expression and community engagement.

Silverstein Properties dedication to public art began in 1987 with the original Seven World Trade Center, which featured works by renowned artists including Al Held, Roy Lichtenstein, Ross Bleckner, and Louise Nevelson. Following 9/11, this commitment to artistic excellence has played an integral role in the site’s rebuilding, with art being incorporated from the earliest stages of design through completion.

“I am delighted to host Frank Gehry’s iconic fish sculpture – one of his largest – inside the 3 World Trade Center lobby,” said Silverstein. “This collaboration is the latest in our company-wide commitment to public space art and creative thinking throughout our buildings.”

Today, the World Trade Center features installations by leading contemporary artists throughout its buildings and public spaces. Notable public art works include Jenny Holzer’s illuminated text installation “For 7 World Trade” at 7 WTC; Frank Stella’s Jasper’s Split Star in the Silverstein Family Park outside 7 WTC; James Rosenquist’s monumental Joystick at 3 WTC; and Kozo Nishino’s Sky Memory at 4 WTC, among others.

The campus has also become an incubator for emerging talent through initiatives such as Silver Arts Projects. This non-profit initiative supports, incubates, and accelerates emerging artists by providing a free, year-long residency with studio space, mentorship, and professional development resources at 4 WTC.

In addition to the public art works on view and Silver Art Projects, Silverstein Properties continues to expand its support for the arts through innovative programs that engage local communities and artists. These efforts reflect the company’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that art remains an essential component of Lower Manhattan’s revitalization and cultural identity.

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