One of the world's largest public art projects has arrived in Western Australia to raise awareness about endangered animals.       

'Wild About Babies' is designed by artists Gillie and Marc and features 21 bronze sculptures of endangered species from across the globe. The free exhibition is launching on International Endangered Species Day.

A mother gorilla and 20 life-size baby animal sculptures will be on display in the outdoor precincts of the WA Museum Boola Bardip and Perth Cultural Centre from 19 May until 3 September 2023, before moving to their permanent home at Perth Zoo.

Environment Minister Reece Whitby offically launched the outdoor exhibition on behalf of Culture and the Arts Minister David Templeman. 

Minister Whitby said he was delighted to see the 'Wild About Babies' exhibit at WA Museum Boola Bardip to raise awareness about endangered animals.

"These incredible sculptures are truly a sight to behold. It seems only fitting we launch this spectacular art installation on International Endangered Species Day," he said.

The babies include a Bengal tiger, orangutan, giraffe, African elephant, white rhino, polar bear, leopard, giant panda, hippo, cheetah, Grevy's zebra, chimpanzee, rock wallaby, arctic fox, lion, Indian elephant, Javan rhino, giant tortoise and Marsican brown bear. All are protected by their universal mother, the great eastern lowland gorilla.

The sculptures are made with exquisite detail. The collection allows visitors to understand the importance of the conservation, research and support needed to protect endangered species across the globe.

"It's fantastic to see one of the world's largest public art projects being showcased in Perth. The 'Wild About Babies' exhibit will encourage learning and a greater understanding about conservation.

Minister Templeman was thrilled the outdoor exhibition could be provided free to the public at WA Museum Boola Bardip and the Perth Cultural Centre.

"The plight of these endangered animals is an incredibly important story to share and I encourage everyone to visit the display,"

"Not only is the WA Museum a cultural hub, it's also a leading scientific institution, making significant contributions to biodiversity, geodiversity and environmental management across Australia and beyond," he said.

'Wild About Babies' is a joint project between the WA Museum, Arts and Culture Trust and Perth Zoo. It is proudly sponsored by APM and supported by WWF-Australia. APM has been instrumental in bringing the collection to the WA Museum and Perth Zoo to help raise awareness of endangered animals.

Night-time visitors to the city can immerse themselves in the dynamic sights, sounds and colours of the 'Wild About Babies' inspired projections at the Old Gaol within the WA Museum Boola Bardip. This complimentary digital exhibition, supported by the Minderoo Foundation, forms part of the ongoing digital projection series and can be enjoyed each evening from sunset.