There’s a fun idea a-brewin’ out there Buffalo, and the guy behind it needs your help to pull it off. It all starts with a rubber ducky… a big-ass rubber duck! The duck is so big that it would actually dwarf you if you stood next to it – the original work of art (circa 2007) measures 85’×66’×105′ and weighs in at 1300 lb. The air-filled, five-storey, yellow, inflatable rubber creation is the work of artist Florentijn Hofman who takes his traveling installations on the road to cities all over the world with one objective in mind – to simply spread joy to people by evoking childhood memories. Masses of people come to see the spectacle, which can have a major economic impact on the cities that host Rubber Duck.
Steve Earnhart wants to bring Rubber Duck to Buffalo. I asked him some questions about the duck, and what it would take to get it here.
When did you come up with this idea?
A few of days ago. I used to live in Norfolk, Virginia. Rubber Duck is currently “installed” in the water near Chrysler Museum, the city’s leading art museum (see here). I have been looking at Facebook posts of friends taking their picture with Rubber Duck and having a great time hosting Rubber Duck in the city. I am mindful of Buffalo’s emerging waterfront and I thought this would be a great way to get people of all ages down to the water. Rubber Duck would give many an “excuse” to come to the waterfront and while they are there, they will see the many improvements and possibilities that our waterfront presents. Plus, who doesn’t want to see a ginormous rubber ducky?
I created a Facebook page (what else does one do in the age of social media) and THEN started thinking about who we can partner with to bring Rubber Duck to Buffalo. I am in the very early stages of reaching out to area museums, elected officials, non-profits, and local businesses in the area who might want to partner together to make this happen as a free, open-to-the-public event.
Who is behind the effort?
Right now, just me. But I want to make this a collaborative effort. If/when we get enough interest, we will contact the artist.
What will it take?
Some long-term planning, some fundraising.
Who needs to jump onboard?
Everyone. Start here: www.facebook.com/rubberduckbuffalo