in the middle of rockefeller center, jeff koons has installed a 45-foot-high inflatable nylon sculpture that towers above visitors to the iconic new york city plaza. the larger-than-life ‘seated ballerina’ — scaled up from the artist’s ‘antiquity’ series — symbolically refers to themes of beauty and connectivity, serving as a contemporary interpretation of the mythological goddess venus. 

jeff koons seated ballerina
the larger-than-life ‘seated ballerina’ is scaled up from the artist’s ‘antiquity’ series
seated ballerina, 2017 © jeff koons / photo by tom powel imaging

 

 

hosted by tishman speyer, and presented by kiehl’s since 1851 and art production fund, koons’ ‘seated ballerina’ is wrapped in a reflective surface. as she gazes down at passers-by, the delicate dancer mirrors the surrounding urban landscape and engages with each viewer as they approach. with the idea of ‘reflectivity’ in mind, the installation seeks to raise awareness of national missing children’s month this may, in an effort to support organizations like the international centre for missing & exploited children. the installation is on view at rockefeller center from now through june 2, 2017.

jeff koons seated ballerina
the delicate figure serves as a contemporary interpretation of the mythological goddess venus
seated ballerina, 2017 © jeff koons / photo by tom powel imaging

 

 

‘it’s a pleasure to work with kiehl’s and art production fund on this charitable project,’ koons explains. ‘this partnership will increase awareness and help the international centre for missing & exploited children make the world a safer place for children. 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.’