Nothing brings better vibes than a four-story tall, three-story wide, floating rubber duck.
Since the conception of The Rubber Duck Project in 2007 by Dutch artist Florentijn Hofman, the duck has floated all around the world, including stops in Amsterdam, Hong Kong and Belgium. However, this “mondial tension” tamer will makes its way to the United States for the first time from Sept. 27-Oct. 20 as it sets sail on the Allegheny River.
The first arrival to the US is fitting for the occasion as it is a part of the Pittsburgh International Festival of Firsts.
“The sailing of The Rubber Duck will kick off the event, full of international, multimedia and contemporary artists,” says Connie George, vice president of communications at VisitPittsburgh. “There will be an influx of international art outside of the normal galleries and museums. The art will actually be in the community.”
The duck is a messenger of peace and unity. Its existence puts a smile on visitors’ faces, but its meaning is much deeper than a simple laugh at a giant bath toy.
“It means that we’re living on one planet and we are one family,” Hofman says in an interview with ITN. “All the waters of the world are our global bathtubs. It means we have to care for each and be responsible about this planet the way you’re responsible about your own house and bath.”
The avian attraction will stick around for a while, making appearances at sporting events.
“Our Pittsburgh Pirates are doing well this year, so hopefully they will be still playing while the duck is here,” George says. “It’s going to be peaking into Steelers’ games as well.”
For more information about discounted trip packages to see The Rubber Duck, go to www.visitpittsburgh.com .
“If you’ve never been to Pittsburgh, or if you’ve been here a hundred times, come while the world of art is here as well,” George says. “Come enjoy the city’s investment to the arts.”
