Dutch Artist Florentijn Hofman ‘DOUBLE DUCKS’ Bring Joy To Hong Kong

The wait is over! After a sea-trial at Tsing Yi on May 25th that has captured the city’s attention, the “DOUBLE DUCKS” art exhibition presented by creative brand AllRightsReserved (ARR) and Dutch artist Florentijn Hofman officially sets sail today. The gigantic rubber ducks will arrive at Victoria Harbour and be open for public viewing from 10 June. The exhibition will last about 2 weeks (subject to weather conditions), putting a smile on everyone who catches a glimpse of this delightful sight, warming and healing our hearts while spreading the message of friendship and unity.

Since 2007, Hofman has been taking his gigantic Rubber Duck around the world. During its visit to Hong Kong in 2013, the icon of happiness attracted enormous crowds at Victoria Harbour. On the 10th anniversary of the Rubber Duck’s first visit to Hong Kong, ARR proudly presents the large-scale public art exhibition “DOUBLE DUCKS” project as part of the celebration.

The 18 metres tall “DOUBLE DUCKS”, one of the tallest rubber ducks in the world, returns with a buddy for the first time ever. The duo will be stationed near Tamar Park and the Central and Western District Promenade (Central Section), becoming a part of the iconic Hong Kong scenery with a more spacious spectating area than before. The Tamar Park and promenade have also taken on the Rubber Duck theme. Spot the ducks on signboards, directional signages, railings and glass balustrades on the observation decks. “DOUBLE DUCKS” is made possible with the support of the Hong Kong Tourism Board and lead sponsor Prudential, as well as other sponsors including csl., Ngong Ping 360, VSFG, ZA Bank, and supporting partner the MTR Corporation.

Welcome “DOUBLE DUCKS” Gigantic rubber ducks to swim from Wan Chai to Central

The pair of monumental Rubber Ducks will make their way from Wan Chai to Central to kick off the exhibition at this morning’s ‘DOUBLE DUCKS” officiating ceremony along the promenade’s viewing location. There, the duckie duo will be met by Dutch artist Hofman who returns to Hong Kong for the launch. Joining him to officiate the opening are the organiser and ARR’s founder, SK Lam, Dutch Consul- General Mr Arjen Van Den BERG, Ms Lilian Ng and Mr Lawrence Lam from lead sponsor Prudential, as well as representatives from other sponsors and supporting partners. To generate even more interest, Prudential is distributing DOUBLE DUCKS balloons at 5 districts in Hong Kong to mark the festivities.

SK Lam, Founder of AllRightsReserved says: “’Rubber Duck’ is one of the most well-loved projects among the numerous global art projects we have organised in the past 20 years. People connected with this large-scale outdoor art installation. We were frequently asked, in the past decade, when the Rubber Duck would be returning. We have decided, against all odds, to bring back our old friend, accompanied, to celebrate the ten-year milestone. Our goal is simple – to spread happiness. Without the support from friends and organisations, this mission would not become possible.”

“Double duck is double luck,” said the artist Florentijn Hofman. “The work emphasizes on friendship and getting connected. Due to COVID we learned that spending time together is so valuable. Making moments and memories for real, living in the here and now, are things to cling on to. The digital world and living on our devices make us sometimes so blunted. Art can open your eyes and spark up your soul. ‘DOUBLE DUCKS’ is not about looking into the past but enjoying the moment together!”

“To coincide with our 175th anniversary celebration, Prudential is glad to work with this well-known art studio and bring the Rubber Duck back to Hong Kong. As social and economic activities resume, this project not only celebrates our anniversary but also serves as a focal point to give renewed energy to citizens as they happily gather once again with family and friends. Prudential has arranged a series of celebratory events to share joy with the public, and rally the whole city towards ‘Celebrating Life’.” Lawrence Lam, Chief Executive Officer of Prudential Hong Kong Limited said.

Father’s Day’s Fantastic Cross-harbour Voyage! One Rubber Duck to make its way to Tsim Sha Tsui and meet 3D counterpart

The “DOUBLE DUCKS” surprises do not end in Central! Apart from their Hong Kong side docking, ARR Founder SK Lam has great news for fans this morning. One of the ducks will make a trip to Tsim Sha Tsui on Father’s Day (June 18th). It will swing by Causeway Bay along the scenic Victoria Harbour, and head to Tsim Sha Tsui, passing landmarks such as the Cultural Centre, Avenue of Stars, and K11 MUSEA, to greet fans on the Kowloon shoreline before rejoining its partner in Central.

The voyage of one of the Double Ducks will last about 2 hours, so the public can catch a leisurely view of the cute icon. With support from Prudential, ARR will also display a 3D animation of the pair of cute Rubber Ducks using naked-eye 3D technologies at the Tsim Sha Tsui Ferry Pier, bridging the gap between the public and art, echoing the Rubber Duck making its way across Victoria Harbour.

A grand slam appearance across water, land and sky! DOUBLE DUCKS themed ferry embarks on maiden voyage Ngong Ping 360 prepares mysterious cable car project csl. to launch AR RUBBER DUCK experience

The “DOUBLE DUCKS” appearance in Hong Kong will be a grand slam affair that innovatively crosses water, land and sky! Following the teaser reveals at MTR stations and trams on June 1st that has already become a hit, Star Ferry will now give its Morning Star vessel a new coat of paint with the iconic colours of the Rubber Duck, complete with a Rubber Duck flag for fully themed sailings. Its maiden voyage will be a surprise appearance alongside the DOUBLE DUCKS for the ceremony. It will then begin transporting passengers from Wan Chai to Tsim Sha Tsui starting today, so everyone can intimately experience the rubber ducks’ positive energy. The ducks would also “take flight” in a mysterious cable cars project on the Ngong Ping 360.

Mr Andy Lau, Managing Director of Ngong Ping 360 says: “We are honoured to participate in the campaign with the ‘Flying Rubber Duck’ and ‘Bubble Bath-themed Cable Cars’ as our contribution to help revitalize local tourism.”

Mr Bruce Lam, Managing Director, Consumer Mobile of CSL Mobile says: “We’re proud to give our support to the Double Ducks event. To share in the joy, we will be launching an accompanying augmented reality (AR) experience – an exclusive surprise for both local residents and visitors. Stay tuned for our upcoming announcement and join csl. in celebrating the exciting event.” 

“DOUBLE DUCKS with Hong Kong Signature Icons” arriving at more MTR stations on June 12th

Dedicated to integrating art into everyday life and strengthening the connection with Hong Kong, ARR and artist Hoffman launch a special series of “DOUBLE DUCKS with Hong Kong Signature Icons”, composed of 24 images carrying unique local characteristics. Subsequent to the launch of the iconic visuals in 18 different MTR stations, 6 more are making their surprise appearances in different MTR stations on 12 June. Coupled with the Double Ducks-themed Admiralty Station, the public can enjoy their artistic journey while commuting around the city.

Ms Linda Choy, Corporate Affairs & Branding Director of the MTR Corporation, says: “We are thrilled that the Rubber Ducks at MTR stations are proving to be very popular among the community since arriving last week. Starting from tomorrow, members of the community can extend their happiness from the duck-themed Admiralty Station to the Double Ducks in Victoria Harbour. Don’t miss the cutie Rubber Ducks on your way.” 

DOUBLE DUCKS go digital! VSFG & ZA Bank turns 12 “Hong Kong Signature” designs into digital collectibles

After revealing the “DOUBLE DUCKS with Hong Kong Signature Icons” series, the public can enjoy taking pictures with these designs at various train stations. 12 of these designs will now be turned into digital collectibles, each limited to an edition of 750 worldwide, including the Clock Tower and Space Museum of Tsim Sha Tsui, Lan Kwai Fong and Choi Hung Estate. Also featured are Hong Kong treats such as dim sum, pineapple bun and French toast, traditional festivities like the Fire Dragon Dance, the Lion Dance and at the Bun Festival, and cultural spots such as a bamboo theatre and the Big Buddha.

Through the internet, they can be gifted to anyone who is a fan of the Rubber Duck and of Hong Kong. It is also a way to promote the concept of online intellectual property and blockchain technologies. The public can have a chance to obtain the 12 digital collectibles for free via event sponsors VSFG and ZA Bank.

Mr Lawrence Chu, Chairman of VSFG, says: “We’re excited about Rubber Duck’s return. VSFG, rooted in Hong Kong, is thrilled to support the Double Ducks project in spreading joy across the city and promoting Hong Kong internationally.”

Mr. Ronald Iu, CEO of ZA Bank says: “ZA Bank is dedicated to engaging with the local community and fostering meaningful human connection through our virtual banking services. The return of the nostalgic rubber duck to Hong Kong after a decade will be the cherry on top of a year when life returns to normal. We are excited to be part of this special occasion to join different sectors in bringing joy to the community, by combining the innovative spirit of ZA Bank and the vibrancy of local Hong Kong art.”