The second annual Rodeo Drive Celebrates Fashion kicked off this week with a reception at the Beverly Wilshire, a Four Seasons Hotel in honor of French contemporary artist Richard Orlinski. Orlinski’s exhibit features eight larger-than-life sculptures recently unveiled along Rodeo Drive. The pieces include “Wild Kong,” a modern, geometric representation of a gorilla in a glossy dark blue, standing upright and holding a large, faceted pink heart in front of its chest with the words “Rodeo Drive” on it. A panda sculpture stands in front of the Beverly Wilshire and a nearly 10-foot bronze panther sculpture with diamond facets is located in the hotel lobby. Additional sculptures such as “Standing Bear and Crocodile” are also on view and showcase Orlinski’s signature “Born Wild” style, which blends pop and street art with contemporary themes in bold colors, shapes, and surfaces.
The kickoff event was held on the terrace at the Beverly Wilshire, during which the Beverly Hills City Council presented Orlinski with a certificate of recognition and applauded the artist’s partnership with the city. Members of the Rodeo Drive Committee, the Mayor of Nice, France, and members of the French Consulate were also in attendance.
Photo courtesy of Derek Hackett
“Rodeo Drive Celebrates Fashion has brought together our community to experience firsthand incredible VIP services, special programs in our flagship stores, and of course, as you see here today, world-renowned artwork from Richard Orlinsky,” Mayor Lester Friedman said.
“When I walked on Rodeo Drive, I was very surprised to see all the people, the kids, watching the structures with a smile,” Orlinksy said. “When you see the smile in the kid’s eyes, I think it’s a success.”
The public exhibition will be on display until November.
