Hong Kong welcomes giant Rubber Duck in first maritime exhibition

Victoria Harbour is set to turn into a giant bath time playground as a 16.5-meter-high inflatable art piece called “Rubber Duck” sails to Hong Kong on May 2. 

 

The piece was created by Dutch conceptual artist Florentijn Hofman, and has traveled to over 10 countries and 12 cities, including Osaka, Sydney, Sao Paulo and Amsterdam.

 

As a classic symbol of childhood frolics in the bathtub, “Rubber Duck” speaks of nostalgia and innocent happiness, a bright contrast to the busy backdrop of Hong Kong. 

 

According to a press release from the Hong Kong Tourism Board, “its mission is to provide a joyful interruption to people’s daily routine.”

 

“Rubber Duck knows no frontiers; it doesn’t discriminate and doesn’t have a political connotation,” Hoffman was quoted as saying in the press release.

 

“The friendly, floating Rubber Duck has healing properties: it can relieve tensions as well as define them. The Rubber Duck is soft, friendly and suitable for all ages,” he said. 

 

The duck will be on exhibit at the 1st Hong Kong Maritime Art Exhibition until June 9, traveling from Victoria Harbour, to the Ocean Terminal Forecourt, as well as to the Gallery by the Harbour, which will organize a photo exhibition to trace the travels of the art piece over the years. —Amanda Lago/KG, GMA News

Photo courtesy of Florentijn Hofman and the Hong Kong Tourism Board