MANHATTAN, N.Y. - Oct. 3, 2019 -Cavalier Ebanks Galleries is proud to announce the return of Bjorn Skaarup's iconic Hippo Ballerina sculpture to New York City. Hippo Ballerina will be poised next to the Flatiron Building at Broadway and 22nd through the end of November. The sculpture is on exhibit through the Department of Transportation's Art Program and in partnership with the Flatiron/23rd Street Partnership. This public exhibition follows Hippo Ballerina's last showing in Dante Park across from Lincoln Center in 2017.
Inspired by Degas' Little Dancer Aged Fourteen (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Little_Dancer_of_Fourteen_Years) (Petite danseuse de quatorze ans) and the dancing hippos of Walt Disney's Fantasia, Hippo Ballerina vividly illustrates the artist's ability to reinterpret subjects and themes found in ancient myths, art history, modern animation, and contemporary popular culture in playful ways that engage the viewer.
"I think a fun way to revitalize themes from art history that have been forgotten lately is through animal allegories, because we are so used to that through animation and fables," said Skaarup.
"Standing over 15 feet high, Hippo Ballerina has found a happy home among New York's skyscrapers. Last seen opposite Lincoln Center in 2017, (https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/huge-bronze-hippo-tutu-coming-lincoln-center-180961523/) she has now made her way down Broadway, beside the iconic Flatiron Building, facing the Empire State Building. I am delighted when people of all ages interact with the bronze sculpture, as they pass, smiling and even posting photos to #dancewithhippoballerina. I know that Hippo Ballerina will enjoy living downtown!"
Visitors wishing to share the spotlight with Hippo Ballerina are invited to post photos striking their favorite dance poses in front of Skaarup's sculpture on their Instagram pages and tag @Dancewithhippoballerina.
For opportunities to acquire or exhibit Hippo Ballerina, or additional information or images please contact Anna Gillis at anna@cavaliergalleries.com or 212.570.4696.
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Anna Gillis
