Dear Shaded Viewers,
Philip Colbert, the celebrated British artist known for his hyper-pop aesthetic and iconic lobster motif, has once again pushed the boundaries of contemporary art with his latest creation, THE LOBSTER PAINTER. Standing at an impressive 7.5 meters tall, this monumental steel sculpture has transformed Hong Kong’s K11 MUSEA into a vibrant artistic playground. Presented by the K11 Art Foundation (KAF) in collaboration with Co-Museum, the installation merges art, technology, and accessibility to bring creativity closer to the public.
Colbert’s THE LOBSTER PAINTER is more than just a sculpture; it is a statement of accessibility and innovation in the art world. Accompanied by five of his signature lobster sculptures, the installation turns K11 MUSEA into a kaleidoscopic hyper-pop world, inviting visitors to engage with art in an immersive and playful way. On display until May 13, 2025, this project underscores Colbert’s vision of making art a communal experience.
Speaking about the project, Colbert remarked, “I’ve always believed in making art that connects with people on a deeper level—art that feels alive and part of their world. With THE LOBSTER PAINTER, I wanted to create something monumental yet accessible, something that could inspire and spark joy in everyone who sees it.”
In tandem with the sculpture’s unveiling, Colbert has partnered with Co-Museum to launch an exclusive series of Asset-Backed Collectibles (ABCs). These 33-centimeter collectible figures are not just miniature replicas but also blockchain-powered tokens that allow collectors to become co-owners of the monumental sculpture itself.
“This is about redefining what it means to own art,” Colbert explained. “Through blockchain technology, we’re creating a shared connection between collectors and the artwork. It’s not just about possession—it’s about participation.”
The collectibles are available at a special kiosk pop-up on the promenade at K11 MUSEA and Avenue of Stars. As an added touch of personalization, co-collectors will have their names displayed on a sign at the base of their collectible figure. A portion of the proceeds will go toward supporting KAF’s contemporary art programs, ensuring that this initiative continues to foster creativity and cultural exchange.
Colbert’s artistic journey doesn’t stop in Hong Kong. In Seoul’s Songpa District, his six-meter-tall sculpture THE PAINTER has found a permanent home outside The Gallery Hosu, overlooking the picturesque Seokchon Lake. Originally commissioned for Lotte’s 10th anniversary celebrations last year, this striking steel artwork has become an enduring symbol of Colbert’s bond with Korea.
“My connection with Korea has grown stronger with each visit,” Colbert shared. “Songpa District holds a particularly special place in that journey. THE PAINTER was made for this city, and this iconic lakeside location felt like a natural way to give back to a community that has been so welcoming and supportive of my work.”
To coincide with the unveiling of THE PAINTER, The Gallery Hosu is hosting Colbert’s solo exhibition The Journey to the Lobster Planet. Running from March 25 to May 11, 2025, the show delves deeper into Colbert’s signature lobster universe. Highlights include his battle scene series where his lobster protagonist confronts artificial intelligence in a retro-futuristic world—a thematic exploration that combines humor and existential reflection.
Philip Colbert’s latest projects exemplify his commitment to breaking down barriers in contemporary art—whether through monumental public sculptures or innovative blockchain technology. By creating works that are both visually striking and conceptually rich, he continues to challenge traditional notions of ownership and accessibility in art.
As visitors marvel at THE LOBSTER PAINTER in Hong Kong or explore THE PAINTER by Seokchon Lake in Seoul, one thing is clear: Philip Colbert is not just shaping spaces—he is reshaping how we experience and interact with art itself.
Later,
Diane
