American artist Jeff Koons has installed a 45-foot-tall metallic Seated Ballerina in the middle of Rockefeller Center in New York.  Often referencing historical imagery and found objects, Koons based Seated Ballerina on a small porcelain figurine. Hosted by Tishman Speyer, and presented by Kiehl’s Since 1851 and Art Production Fund, the sculpture acts as a contemporary iteration of the goddess Venus, and symbolizes notions of beauty and connectivity. Its reflective surface mirrors its immediate environment and engages with each viewer.
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The work aims to bring awareness to National Missing Children’s Month this May, in an effort to support organizations like the International Centre for Missing & Exploited Children (ICMEC) that work tirelessly to create a safer world for children.
“It’s a pleasure to work with Kiehl’s and Art Production Fund on this charitable project. This partnership will increase awareness and help the International Centre for Missing & Exploited Children make the world a safer place for children,” said Jeff Koons. “I hope the installation of Seated Ballerina at Rockefeller Center offers a sense of affirmation and excitement to the viewer to reach their potential. The aspect of reflectivity emulates life’s energy; it’s about contemplation and what it means to be a human being. It’s a very hopeful piece.”
The installation is on view at Rockefeller Center from now through June 2, 2017.
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all images © Jeff Koons / photo by Tom Powel Imaging