FunBoy, the originators of the floating swans, has partnered with local artist Alex Yanes to make the loudest — most "Miami" — float imaginable. The collaboration, launched last week, highlights Yanes’ whimsical and expressive artwork.
The limited-edition swan can be purchased online for $128, and for every float you buy, the firm will pay for one year of access to clean drinking water for a person in a developing country. The company works with RainCatcher, a nonprofit dedicated to sustainable methods for clean water.
“We wanted to create something that embodies Miami’s personality,” says Yanes, referring to the swan’s design. “Since I grew up in Miami, I’ve always gravitated toward a tropical vibe, and I think the swan really captures that.”
The FunBoy/Alex Yanes collabo came about in the most Miami way possible: It began in the backyard of Dave Grutman, owner of LIV nightclub, who is a total fanboy of the floats. He once received a golden swan from DJ Calvin Harris.
“It happened so simply. We were in Dave’s backyard, and he turns to me and says he wants to connect me with FunBoy to make a float. A week later, we were doing business,” Yanes explains.
Yanes, once a struggling artist, now has nearly ten projects running simultaneously, all in different cities. In recent months, he has collaborated with Adidas, Rag & Bone, and Neiman Marcus. Soon he’ll travel to Cleveland, Philadelphia, London, and New York for art shows. “I never expected my art to take off like this. Four years ago, I was ready to give it all up, but something told me to keep going. I’m glad I listened to it,” he says.
FunBoy co-owner Max Barrett is also glad. “Partnering with Alex was a dream,” Barrett says. “His work really captures the electric culture of Miami, and we knew that would translate into a unique float.”
The limited-edition float is the first product of a three-part series. The Los Angeles-based brand is also working with two other artists on the West Coast.
FunBoy and Alex Yanes Pool Float
Costs $128 via funboy.com. Follow Yanes on Instagram or visit yanesart.com.
