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All the United States Rhode Island Newport 'The Wave'
AO Edited

'The Wave'

An ode to Japanese artist Hokusai, with a bit of a comical twist.

Newport, Rhode Island

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bakedinthehole
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The Wave Statue   bakedinthehole / Atlas Obscura User
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The Wave Statue   bakedinthehole / Atlas Obscura User
The famous feet.   bakedinthehole / Atlas Obscura User
The Wave Statue   bakedinthehole / Atlas Obscura User
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While wandering through downtown Newport, visitors may be taken aback to see two bronze feet sticking out while crossing Thames Street.

The feet and the accompanying wave are courtesy of artist and sculptor Katharine Worden, a familiar figure in the lively Newport art community. In 1983, Worden unveiled “The Wave.” The design was a twist on Hokusai’s famous work. Worden’s wave swaps the intense majesty of Hokusai’s piece for one that is a bit more humorous. A pair of feet stick straight out from the bronze wave pointing right towards any and all passerby.

Newport locals have taken “The Wave” under their wing in their own special way. In the summer, the statue’s feet shine bright as the bronze is polished by the hands of passersby. During the winter, when Newport becomes cold, anonymous locals will put socks on the feet. 

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bakedinthehole

Edited By

Fred Cherrygarden

  • Fred Cherrygarden

Published

August 29, 2022

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'The Wave'
33 Thames St
Newport, Rhode Island, 02840
United States
41.484131, -71.314909
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