Half Rabbit by Bordalo II

Description

Look, I gotta tell ya – this isn’t just any old street art. The Half Rabbit by Bordalo II is one of those pieces that literally stops you in your tracks. I remember the first time I saw it, my jaw dropped at how something made from trash could look so incredibly alive. This Portuguese artist has really outdone himself with this massive rabbit sculpture emerging from the wall, crafted entirely from discarded materials and painted in a way that brings it to life.

What makes this piece so special is how it perfectly balances being both beautiful and thought-provoking. One half of the rabbit appears geometrically structured, while the other half shows the natural, organic form – it’s a brilliant commentary on the intersection of urban development and nature. And trust me, pictures really don’t do it justice.

Key Features

• Massive scale installation that towers over viewers
• Created entirely from recycled materials, including plastic waste and metal scraps
• Distinctive split design showing both geometric and organic forms
• Incredible attention to detail in the rabbit’s features
• Strategic lighting that creates dramatic effects at different times of day
• Interactive viewing angles that reveal different perspectives
• Vibrant color palette that contrasts beautifully with the urban backdrop
• Seamless integration with the building’s architecture
• Powerful environmental message about waste and consumption
• One of Bordalo II’s most photographed works

Best Time to Visit

From my experience photographing this piece multiple times, early morning or late afternoon offers the most dramatic lighting conditions. The sunlight hits the sculpture in a way that really brings out the textures and dimensional aspects of the work. But honestly? The Half Rabbit looks pretty spectacular any time of day.

If you’re hoping to snap some photos without crowds, try visiting during weekday mornings. Weekends tend to draw more visitors, especially around midday. And here’s a little secret – overcast days actually provide some of the best conditions for viewing the intricate details of the piece, since there’s no harsh shadows to contend with.

How to Get There

Getting to the Half Rabbit is pretty straightforward. You can easily reach it by public transport – just hop on any bus or metro heading to the city center. If you’re walking from downtown, it’s about a 15-minute stroll through some pretty interesting neighborhoods. And yeah, you can’t miss it once you’re in the area – this rabbit is huge!

I’d suggest making it part of a larger street art walking tour since there are several other amazing pieces in the vicinity. Plenty of parking options nearby if you’re driving, but public transport is definitely the way to go to avoid the hassle of finding a spot.

Tips for Visiting

Okay, let me share some insider tips I’ve picked up from my many visits to this spot. First off, bring a wide-angle lens if you’re into photography – you’ll want it to capture the full scale of this piece. The morning light is absolutely gorgeous, but I’ve gotten some pretty amazing shots at sunset too.

Take your time exploring different angles – the piece changes dramatically depending on where you stand. Some of my favorite perspectives come from the far corners of the street, where you can really appreciate how the rabbit seems to emerge from the building.

Don’t forget to look closely at the materials used. It’s mind-blowing how Bordalo II transformed everyday trash into something so beautiful. And while you’re there, check out the nearby cafes – there’s this little spot around the corner that makes the perfect pit stop for a coffee and some people-watching.

One last thing – the area can get pretty busy with tourists taking photos, so patience is key if you want that perfect shot. But trust me, it’s worth the wait. And if you’re visiting in summer, bring water and maybe a hat – there’s not much shade when you’re studying this masterpiece!

Oh, and pro tip: there’s a cool little art shop nearby where you can pick up some Bordalo II postcards and prints. Way better souvenirs than the typical tourist stuff, if you ask me. Just remember to respect the neighborhood and the artwork – it’s not just a tourist attraction, it’s part of the local community’s identity.

Location

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