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TWO THUMBS UP
Artist: Yin Peet
Size: each 50” Hx2’Wx3’D
Weight: 2 tons (one ton each)
Material: Granite
Year completed: 2018
“Two Thumbs Up” is a simple gesture recognized around the world as a symbol of praise, achievement, and encouragement. Yet behind every “two thumbs up” is usually a much longer story—one shaped by hard work, sacrifice, and moments of doubt.
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Standing at the entrance of the museum, this sculpture welcomes every visitor while reflecting the values behind the art you are about to see. The inspiration came from hearing visitors express their appreciation during museum tours. Those compliments reminded us that every achievement, in art or in life, must first be earned.
The thumb has appeared in art before, most famously in César Baldaccini’s monumental thumb sculpture. My interpretation, however, focuses less on the hand itself and more on the human journey behind recognition.
The two figures standing on top of the thumbs ask an important question: once we have earned success, how do we continue to deserve it? The oversized hands, a recurring element in my work, symbolize human effort, determination, and hope. To me, Two Thumbs Up is not simply about receiving praise—it is about the lifelong pursuit of excellence.