Free As A Bird: TUD Unveils A New Collaboration
Iconic work of groundbreaking artist Jean-Michel Basquiat is given a new voice by contemporary Dubai art studio The Ugly Duck
Dozens of iconic figures left their imprint on the world of modern art in the 20th century but few had the raw and innovative power of Jean-Michel Basquiat. The American’s distinctive artwork, which often used symbols such as birds, crowns, skulls as well as words, is instantly recognisable and remains truly original.
Today, more than 30 years after his death, Basquiat’s unrivalled legacy is celebrated with two unique pieces of contemporary art from the Dubai-based company The Ugly Duck (TUD). Basquiat’s art has been transmitted onto two limited edition duck figurines: Untitled (Bird) and Bird on Money/Yellow Crown & Bone. Visually striking and undoubtedly thought provoking, the two pieces from TUD and Basquiat are examples of a new design language for today’s rebellious art collector.
Untitled (Bird) explores the themes of freedom and escape which were central to Basquiat’s work and life, a life that was lived in New York and Los Angeles during which time he befriended celebrities including, most notably, Andy Warhol. TUD believe the luxurious 60cm tall art toy is an expression of true feelings and contiguity with your own flaws.
The second piece in the collection, Bird on Money/Yellow Crown & Bone, measures 90cm in height and examines wealth, power and inequality. TUD, a brand that champions life’s ugly ducklings, crafted the pieces to show that inequality and injustice can be overcome by those who forge their own path and preserve their identity.
Rising up from making New York street art to selling his work in glitzy Manhattan galleries, Basquiat blazed a trail for others to follow. Similarly, TUD, a design hub that revels in disrupting the conventions of the art world, say Untitled (Bird) and Bird on Money/Yellow Crown & Bone represent Basquiat’s quest to make art that acted as social commentary. “Our collaboration with Jean-Michel Basquiat is about freedom and a testament to the limitless potential of human creativity,” say the brand.
TUD has previously collaborated with LA artist PunkMeTender and Pantone on a series of art toys and recently participated in Milan Design Week 2024. Available to buy now at tudtoy.com, these highly collectible pieces are presented in a premium gift box with an in-built NFC tag that proves their authenticity.
Images supplied.