Twenty inflatable tentacles have appeared extending out from a disused warehouse in Philadelphia, giving the appearance that sea monsters have attacked the building.

Located in the American city’s Navy Yard – a waterside development – the Sea Monsters installation is the largest inflatable sculpture ever created and is the brainchild of UK-based artists Filthy Luker and Pedro Estrellas – real names Luke Egan and Pete Hamilton.

The project was created in conjunction with Group X, who are an anonymous group of local artists and curators.

"Earlier this year, Group X pitched us on doing this piece," said Jennifer Tran, director of marketing and communications at the Navy Yard.

"Out of all the designs, this one spoke to us because we thought it was really unique. It's never been seen before in Philadelphia. We thought it really pushed the boundaries."

Ranging in size from 32-40ft long, the tentacles twist and curve out of the building and have a series of green suction cups lined along their undersides, making it appear as if they belong to octopus-like creatures.

The installation is on-show in the Navy Yard, which is free entry, until 16 November 2018.