FLYING WHALE — KINETIC SCULPTURE

‘Flying Whale’ (Nahnda Gorae) is a kinetic art sculpture created by Sang-yong Lee of Hyunjin Seoul Studio, inspired by the humpback whale.

Balanced upright on its center of gravity, it allows the viewer to perceive the impression of a whale swimming, even in the slightest breeze. Its irregular movements continuously reveal new perspectives, while the weight distribution between the pectoral fins and the body has been carefully refined to naturally evoke the motion of the animal.

The artist vividly recalls the sight of a whale gliding slowly in the distance, sending sprays of water high into the air, alongside a pod of dozens of dolphins racing at full speed, scattering splashes around them. Although he now recognizes it as a remarkable moment, at the time it felt like an ordinary everyday scene. It was only after meeting his wife, who has a deep passion for whales, that these memories took on new meaning.

‘Flying Whale’ was originally conceived as a small gift for her.