A controversial artist

Florentijn Hofman has generated controversy through his conduct in tenaciously pursuing copyright protections for his artwork – in spite of the fact that Peter Ganine patented the design for the original bath toy (that the contemporary art project closely resembles) back in 1947.
He has also come under fire for simultaneously commercializing the project and criticizing authorities of doing the same thing – most notably in Taiwan, where he publicly complained about the sale of unlicensed merchandise and then criticized organizers for turning the initiative into a “commercial circus.”
It was reported in the Taipei Times in 2013, that Hofman had received more than TWD10 million (MOP2.45 million) in royalties for staging his artwork on the island alone.
In Macau, the Fisherman’s Wharf has secured the permission to host a sideline cultural event in their Rubber Duck Garden, accompanied by a range of other themed offerings. According to MACA, the Fisherman’s Wharf was also a sponsor in bringing the giant duck to Macau, though representatives of the complex were not able to confirm this with the Times.
Financially worth it or not, the duck has made a huge splash in Macau, proving immensely popular with locals and tourists alike. It will remain in the MSAR until May 27.
“The duck has been exhibited in many places; in Hong Kong, Taipei and many places across China. It seems that, in the Greater China region, Macau is the only place that was left out […] When you see people outside, smiling and laughing with all the family, I believe that it was worth it,” said Susana Lee.