A delightful spectacle unfolded in Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour as a pair of Rubber Ducks took center stage in an art installation known as “Double Ducks.” Created by acclaimed Dutch artist Florentijn Hofman, the giant inflatable yellow ducks, standing at an impressive height of 18 meters (59 feet), aim to bring happiness and joy to the city.
This captivating display marks a decade since Hofman’s iconic “Rubber Duck” sculpture captured the hearts of Hong Kong’s residents and visitors in 2013. With “Double Ducks,” the artist intends to double the fun and amplify the happiness experienced by the people of Hong Kong.
In light of the global challenges faced in recent times, including the pandemic, conflicts, and political unrest, Hofman believes that now is the perfect moment to reintroduce this symbol of fortune. He hopes that the presence of the double ducks will provide solace and rejuvenation to a world that sorely needs it.
The curator of the exhibition, AllRightsReserved (ARR), draws a parallel between the ducks and the Chinese characters “xi” for happiness and “peng” for friends, emphasizing the positive and harmonious spirit they embody.
Hofman’s inspiration for this grand inflatable installation originated from a world map and a humble rubber duck. Since 2007, his creation has embarked on a global tour, making appearances in various harbors, from France to Brazil, before finally gracing the shores of Hong Kong.
Positioned near Hong Kong’s central district and Tamar Park, the ducks embarked on their whimsical journey across Victoria Harbour, eliciting joyous reactions from onlookers. Anna, a 40-year-old passerby, expressed her delight in witnessing this captivating art display. She hoped for more such installations in Hong Kong, suggesting that the city should aspire to rival the abundance of art seen in Macau or Shenzhen.
Kane, a 40-year-old engineer, viewed the presence of the ducks as a positive development for Hong Kong. In a time when society is plagued by despondency, he saw this art installation as a silver lining. Kane believed that the government’s investment in public funds for such endeavors is more worthwhile than allocating them to other areas.
For the next two weeks, Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour will be adorned with these larger-than-life Rubber Ducks, spreading happiness and inspiring awe among residents and visitors alike.