Jeff Koon’s sitting ballerina
A small ornamental porcelain piece representing a dancer, found in a Russian factory in the early 20th century, is the inspiration for the imposing Sitting Ballerina by American artist Jeff Koons. Made of polished stainless steel and with a thin patina, it reaches a height of over two meters (7 feet) and weights 1,543 kilos (3,400 lbs). The piece is part of the Antiquity series of large sculptures by the artist, which depicts historical and mythological themes.
The sculpture was acquired by the famous collector and president of the Museum of Latin American Art of Buenos Aires (MALBA), Eduardo Constantini, along with another work by Koons named Pluto and Proserpina, for a price close to US $14.5 million. The Ballerina is currently exhibited in the museum’s courtyard, until early September, when it will be moved to Miami, where it will adorn the entrance of the Oceana Bal Harbour condominium alongside Pluto and Proserpina. The residents will be part owners of the pieces, enhancing the value of the property. This is the second major real estate project in Miami by Consultatio Real Estate, a company headed by Constantini.
The Sitting Ballerina will grace the entrance of Oceana Bal Harbour condominium
Jeffrey Koons, the provocative romantic
During the presentation of the Ballerina on the courtyard of the MALBA, Koons said, “Stainless steel is one of my favorite materials because of its durability and strong character. In my sculptures, the material is polished, allowing the viewer to see their reflection, creating an affirmation of their own being”.
The sculpture is made of polished stainless steel.
The artist sees his ballerina as a modern interpretation of Botticelli‘s Venus, whose beauty invites contemplation and leads to a feeling of relaxation and inner peace. Koons is one of the most famous contemporary artists and known for being innovative, passionate, creative and controversial.
Yoko Ono
Malba is one of the most relevant museums in Argentina and Latin America, and its schedule is varied and intense. Already there is great anticipation at the museum for the upcoming exhibition Dream Come True by Yoko Ono. The works will be mainly exhibited in Malba’s halls, but the project will also spread through the city with various interventions in public spaces, media participation and an intense campaign on social media.
From the museum’s website, Yoko Ono is already inviting the Latin-American women that have suffered violence simply because they are female to send a photo of their eyes and personal testimony, anonymously. The exhibition will be held in Buenos Aires between June 24 and October 31, 2016. ■