Dutch artist Florentijn Hofman‘s iconic Rubber Duck has become a global symbol of joy and unity since its 2007 debut in France. Towering at six storeys high, this inflatable wonder has journeyed across the world, from Los Angeles to Hong Kong, delighting millions with its charming presence. In Korea, the Rubber Duck made notable appearances in Seoul’s Seokchon Lake in 2014 and 2022, attracting over 6.5 million visitors in its latest display and providing a beacon of hope during challenging times.
Hofman’s creative genius takes a new turn with his first solo exhibition in Korea, “Inclusive,” hosted at Whitestone Gallery Seoul. Adapting to the indoor venue, Hofman presents miniaturized versions of his public art installations, providing an intimate yet impactful experience. His art, often featuring animal-inspired motifs like the iconic Rubber Duck, serves as a metaphor for human experiences, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers to connect people universally.
The exhibition, “Inclusive,” features scaled-down sculptures of animals, each embodying values like freedom, hope, and inclusivity. Hofman’s work transcends the physical representation of animals, offering modern sculptural interpretations of timeless fables. These installations invite viewers to engage in meaningful conversations and create collective memories, reconnecting them with their surroundings and each other.
A key aspect of Hofman’s installations is their immense scale, which fundamentally alters the perception of the environment they inhabit. By magnifying everyday objects, Hofman shifts the viewer’s perspective, compelling them to reconsider their relationship with the space around them. For instance, the Rubber Duck’s presence in Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour and Seoul’s Seokchon Lake has left indelible marks, reshaping how these urban landscapes are perceived.
Hofman’s art eliminates social hierarchies, placing everyone, regardless of status or profession, on an equal footing. The towering sculptures dwarf all onlookers, fostering a sense of unity and equality. His exhibition “Inclusive” at Whitestone Gallery Seoul is not just a display of artistic prowess but a celebration of shared human experiences and a testament to the power of art in connecting people across the globe.
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