Unified in Repetition: The Artistic Odyssey of Facundo Yebne

The studio is a cacophony of color and whimsy, with vibrant rubber ducks strewn across surfaces like scattered confetti, inviting both laughter and introspection. This is the creative domain of Facundo Yebne, also known as FLY, whose installations transform the mundane into powerful visual narratives.Facundo Yebne, an Argentine-American artist based in Buenos Aires, Argentina, has been revolutionizing the art world with his distinctive large-scale sculptures and public installations. Known for his work with resin and rubber ducks, Yebne's art explores themes of unity, resilience, and collective human experience. Through his practice, he strives to cultivate moments of joy and reflection, a mission he articulates with both conviction and playfulness.Born in 1978, Facundo's path to the art world was unconventional. A former engineer, he was inspired to enter the realm of art after a serendipitous visit to the studio of Jack Amoroso in 2024. "I had this feeling like happiness, like butterflies," Yebne recalls, describing the array of sensations that prompted his leap into artistry. "I knew that was the calling." Under Amoroso's mentorship, Yebne delved into painting, which, despite his perfectionist tendencies, became the stepping stone to his exploration of large-scale installations.Before immersing himself in art, Yebne's life was anchored in engineering, a discipline that has significantly shaped his artistic process. "The structured mindset from engineering seems to have carried over beautifully into my art," he notes. This technical foundation is evident in the meticulous planning and execution of his installations, where material experimentation meets artistic expression.The turning point in Yebne's career came in 2024, when he encountered rubber ducks—objects that would become central to his work. "The ducks chose me," he muses. Initially intended as a whimsical dinner gift, these ducks quickly evolved into symbols of joy and connection. "They transmit a message of peace, love, health, and joy," Yebne explains, reflecting on their transformative impact on his life and work.Yebne's installations are a testament to his belief in art as a conduit for collective happiness and introspection. His works, such as "UnityBeak" and "Proud Love," invite viewers into a shared emotional journey, harnessing the simple form of rubber ducks to foster smiles and connections. "Always the desire is for people to smile," he shares, emphasizing the power of small gestures in shaping positive human interactions.His first major breakthrough came in 2025 with his installations for Lincoln Road and the City of Miami Beach. These public artworks captured the attention of local and international audiences, setting the stage for his participation in the XV Florence Biennale, where he was awarded the Installation Art Fourth Prize. "Basically, the day of the awards, I had no idea I was getting one," Yebne recounts, his surprise mingled with a sense of destiny. "The law of attraction is serving me lately," he adds with a hint of wry humor.Yebne's rapid ascent in the art world has not been without its challenges. The transition from engineer to artist demanded not only a shift in mindset but also a willingness to embrace vulnerability. "In many societies, in many work environments, people don't smile," he observes, acknowledging the struggles that underpin his optimistic practice. Yet, it is precisely these challenges that have fueled his creative resilience, propelling him to build a legacy grounded in shared human values.Looking to the future, Yebne is poised to expand his artistic footprint with upcoming exhibitions, including a solo show in CENTURIPE, Italy, intriguingly titled "NOT ALL DUCKS GO TO HEAVEN," set in a repurposed church known as Il Purgatorio. "I hope I'll see you soon there," he enthuses, eager to share his ongoing exploration of art as a transformative force.Facundo Yebne's journey from a moment of inspiration in Jack Amoroso's studio to the global stage is a testament to the power of art to transcend boundaries and unite people. As he continues to create, his work remains a vibrant reminder that joy and connection, like the rubber ducks that inspire him, are often found in the most unexpected places. Discover more of Facundo Yebne | FLY's work and available pieces on their Studio profile. View Facundo Yebne | FLY's Profile