Manasseh introduces the new « Balloon Animals » by Jeff Koons for Bernardaud in Beirut

Beirut September 20, 2017. Manasseh presented the “Balloon Animals” Collection by Jeff Koons at their prestigious boutique in Downtown Beirut, in the presence of friends and clients of Manasseh, as well as media figures, social influencers, art lovers and collectors. Beirut is among the first international capitals that were chosen by Bernardaud to unveil the latest “Balloon Animals” artworks designed by Jeff Koons for the prestigious French brand. The Bernardaud collection by Jeff Koons comprises the following pieces: – Balloon Swan (Yellow) A yellow balloon twisted into a porcelain swan. The statuette in the shape of a swan is of significant importance for the artist as it is one of Koons’ first ceramic sculptures, made at the age of 9. The young artist put all his effort into finding the right angle for the swan’s neck. He spent over a year and a half working to shape its graceful neck. – Balloon Monkey Jeff Koons transforms a simple twisted balloon into a porcelain monkey for his limited edition, Balloon Monkey 2017. Seven years in the making, the original Balloon Monkey (Blue), 2006–2013, is 3.80 meters long and weighs nearly five tons. – Balloon Rabbit Inspired by a twisted rubber balloon rabbit, Koons’ Balloon Rabbit (Red), 2017, is a limited edition of highly reflective red porcelain. The original Balloon Rabbit, 2005–2010, is a three-ton sculpture that stands over four meters high. It is made from mirror-polished stainless steel coated with a transparent varnish. Jeff Koons was born in York, Pennsylvania in 1955. He is without question one of the most esteemed living artists of our era. He partnered with Bernardaud to realize the sophisticated pieces exposed worldwide. These artworks are part of numerous private and public collections. Koons’ creations “allow the viewers not to be intimidated by art, but make them feel that they can emotionally participate in it through their senses and their intellect and be fully engaged”. The “Balloon Animals” collection is now available and can be ordered in all the Manasseh boutiques (Ashrafieh 01 218 555 – Downtown 01 991 177 – Kaslik 09 640 019). Website: www.manasseh.com.lb – Social Media: Facebook and Instagram @ManassehLebanon