Florentijn Hofman, Rubber Duck artist, is man of principles
Florentijn Hofman could have cashed in big on the buzz over Rubber Duck. But he has strict views about the intersection of art and money
Florentijn Hofman has a reputation as a man of principle. Behind the playful, outsized Rubber Duck floating in Victoria Harbour is an artist who takes his work seriously.
For instance, he has strict rules about how his "baby" is to be handled while on display in Victoria Harbour.
"First, it must always be shown to the general public … it's not for private [use]. There must not be any commercialised items involved. It must always be on the water. And it needs to be produced locally," says the 36-year-old father of three and Rotterdam resident.
"The water in the world is our global bathtub. We need to stay simple. The Rubber Duck needs to stay as a Rubber Duck."
The juxtaposition of the child's toy against the backdrop of one of the world's busiest harbours has proved irresistible for media outlets, and images of the duck have popped up across the internet. Companies would no doubt have paid a lot of money for the chance to stamp their brand on the side of the 16.5-metre-tall sculpture.
But Hofman turned down all requests. Not even the name of shopping mall Harbour City, which commissioned the project, gets a special mention.