Buzz
Jeff Koons’s Puppy, a towering 40-foot West Highland Terrier sculpture at the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao in Bilbao, Spain, is known for its ever-changing floral display. The seasonal rotation of flowers, from begonias and petunias in warmer months to pansies in winter, ensures the sculpture is always unique.
Koons has introduced a new twist to Puppy—a floral face mask, adding a timely touch to the artwork.
This creative update reflects the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the importance of public health measures in safeguarding lives.
“It’s a tremendous honor to have Puppy convey the significance of mask-wearing during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Koons stated in a press release. “A resident of Bilbao wrote to me suggesting that Puppy wear a mask, which I found to be a brilliant idea. I was delighted when the Museum approved, and now Puppy, decorated with a mask crafted from white and blue flowers, can highlight the importance of masks in preventing the spread of COVID-19.”
“During this pandemic, one of the most meaningful actions we can take is to share knowledge on how to protect one another. I believe Puppy has felt the affection from everyone and is delighted to promote safety and health to the people of Bilbao and beyond.”
Puppy has been a fixture at the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao since its opening in 1997. Koons is renowned for his larger-than-life sculptures, including Balloon Dog, which sold for $58.4 million in 2013.
