Artworks

Poor Teddy in Repose

On view in Pietrasanta Square, in the center of town, is a monumental cast bronze Poor Teddy in Repose installation. The 4.5 m. bronze Teddy bear has a knife plunged into its chest, this installation speaks to the disappearance of childhood innocence and the increasing prevalence of technology and aggression in our society. The use of bronze in the installation is a deliberate choice that emphasizes the industrialization and commercialization of childhood.

Hovnanian’s installation asks the viewer to question whether the quintessential comfort toy is dead because the contemporary child prefers digital devices. Poor Teddy in Repose is a stark reminder that we must continue to question the world around us and strive for a more humanistic and compassionate future.

Poor Teddy in Repose, 2024