A new public art installation on New York City’s High Line is stirring mixed reactions from visitors. Titled Foot Fountain (pink) by Argentine-born artist Mika Rottenberg, the 10-foot sculpture, installed near 30th Street in April 2025, resembles a pink foot and leg, accented with red-lipped mouths sticking out tongues. The interactive piece features a cycling mechanism that allows pedestrians to activate a water fountain at the top, leading to some unexpected showers for bystanders.
Responses have ranged from discomfort and amusement to appreciation. While some adults find the sculpture suggestive or disturbing, others, including families with children, see it as a playful and fun feature. Tourists have noted the bold cultural expression, with some suggesting it wouldn’t be acceptable in their home countries. Despite—or perhaps because of—its controversial appearance, many acknowledge the piece’s creativity and its potential to spark conversation.
The installation will remain on display until May 2026.
