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'Why are people being so greedy?': CJ Hendry’s viral Flower Market sparks debate over plush flower frenzy

'Why are people being so greedy?': CJ Hendry’s viral Flower Market sparks debate over plush flower frenzy

From CNA · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Ongoing story
  • Crowds at CJ Hendry's "Flower Market" exhibition in Singapore have been seen buying large quantities of plush flowers, sparking online debate.
  • Visitors are given one complimentary flower, with additional stems costing S$7, leading some to question the "greedy" behavior and speculate about resellers.
  • Organizers are managing visitor flow to ensure a positive experience amid overwhelming demand for the limited-time exhibition.

An art exhibition in Singapore has become the unlikely center of a debate over consumer behavior, as visitors to CJ Hendry's "Flower Market" installation are seen purchasing plush flowers in bulk. Videos circulating on social media show attendees at the Gardens by the Bay exhibition enthusiastically collecting armfuls of the fabric blooms, prompting bewilderment and criticism online. While each visitor receives one complimentary plush flower, additional stems are priced at S$7, a cost that has not deterred many from making substantial purchases. This has led some netizens to question the "greedy" nature of the buying, with comments suggesting the behavior is more about resale than appreciation of the art. "Why are people being so greedy? This is supposed to be a relaxing and therapeutic exhibition," one netizen commented, echoing a sentiment shared by many. The fervor has also led to speculation that some buyers are resellers aiming to profit from the limited-edition items, evidenced by the sheer volume of flowers being collected without apparent regard for design. "It’s clear they’re resellers cos they didn’t even bother to count the number of stalks they’re taking, cos they know if they sell $70/stalk, people would buy it. Gross," read another comment. The overwhelming response has prompted calls for organizers to implement purchase limits or enhanced crowd-control measures for the exhibition, which runs only until June 14. In response, IMBA CEO Michael Lee stated that the team is actively managing visitor flow to minimize overcrowding and ensure a positive experience. "We have limited walk-in slots for those who are unable to obtain a registered slot, and we seek the patience of our visitors given the overwhelming response and potentially long waiting times," Lee said.

Why are people being so greedy? This is supposed to be a relaxing and therapeutic exhibition.

— NetizenComment on social media regarding the large purchases of plush flowers at the exhibition.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by CNA. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.