Sneaky Cat and Koala
Project
Davide Prete's "Koala" and "Sneaky Cat" are two creative sculptures that are part of the Capitol Hill Alphabet Animals project in Washington, D.C. The project features 20 animal sculptures mounted on lights and street signs throughout the Capitol Hill neighborhood.
Koala
The "Koala" is located at the intersection of Fourth and K Streets SE. When Prete first applied to participate in the project, he was on vacation in Australia, which inspired him to create a koala sculpture.
Prete's original intent was for the koala to be installed lower than the other sculptures in the project so that people could interact with it more easily. However, after the sculpture was stolen a few months after its installation, he had to replace it and install it higher up.
Sneaky Cat
The "Sneaky Cat" is located at the intersection of Ninth and C Streets SE. After creating the "Koala", Prete wanted to continue creating art that would connect with the public. He decided to create a cat that appeared to be sneaking up on people, much like a cat might playfully pounce on its owner. To prevent theft, Prete used thicker materials and reinforced the connection point of the "Sneaky Cat" to its sign.
Prete is proud that his sculptures bring joy to people who encounter them. He believes that public art is an excellent way to personalize neighborhoods and make them more special.