The hedgehogs are back for its third season, this time in a bigger edition of 28. We chose the most simple shape this time, and kept the original color. The original yellow hedgehog was actually stolen on the opening night of the biennial, for which it was made as part of the way-finding system. Back then, 12 different hedgehogs were used to mark various venues of the 33rd graphic biennial in Ljubljana, organized by MGLC and curated by Slavs and Tatars. Nejc worked on the identity of the biennial and teamed up with Dan Adlešič on the signage of the events.
The hedgehogs were a hit, and people kept asking if they can buy one. We thought about it, but quickly ran into a problem. The first time around, we found a guy with a special machine to do the plastic coating for us, but he was not excited about the job and made it clear that he will NOT do it again. After some thinking, Dan bought the double-component polyurethane coat-spitting machine himself, and we were finally able to make the first limited series in 2022. It sold out quickly, and we decided to make this into a yearly project where we release a limited series in November of each year.
First, second and third edition.
The basic shape is cut out of 70mm styrofoam. It is then sprayed over with a few layers of polyurethane, which hardens to a thick and very durable layer of plastic. This rough coating, usually used for industrial waterproofing, is slightly uneven and makes each piece different from another. Polyurethane color is used to spray the shape orange and add the eyes. Finally, thick car varnish coating is added for a glossy finish and extra protection. Each hedgehog also has a different position of the pupils. This year, the series is limited to 28 pieces, each is numbered at the bottom and comes with a certificate of authenticity.
Close-ups of the polyurethane coating with 3 layers of paint and the final glossy finish.
Thanks to the polyurethane coating, the hedghogs are durable and not particularly fragile. That said, the outer color coating can be damaged or chipped in case of stronger physical impact, so handle them with care. The hedgehogs can be used outdoors, but low or high temperatures my cause damage.
Last but not least, we would like to extend our gratitude to Nevenka Šivavec, executive artistic director of MGLC, and Yasmin Martin Vodopivec, Assistant Director for Financial, Legal, and General Affairs at MGLC for their continued support of this project.
