All Photos By Gail

If you happened to strolled along the High Line sometime between March 11th and May 31st, you may have noticed something striking floating above 10th Avenue at 18th Street: a familiar, fuchsia feline lounging with purpose.  Soft Power was the latest billboard installation by acclaimed contemporary artist Alex Da Corte, and it turned heads for all the right reasons.

Commissioned as part of the High Line Art program, Soft Power reimagines the classic Pink Panther cartoon character — first created by Friz Freleng in 1963 —- as an unlikely but effective symbol of gentle resistance. In this work, a plush toy (soft) version of Pink Panther reclines casually, clutching a simple blank protest sign. The image is bold yet understated, inviting viewers to reflect on the idea that strength doesn’t always have to be loud.

Da Corte describes Soft Power as a call for mutual understanding and kindness, a “place for fairness, for clear views clearly expressed, for mutualistic relations that benefit all parties or, at least, show consideration for all parties. It is the site for truce.” This peaceful energy stands in contrast to the chaos of modern life — and it’s exactly what makes the piece resonate so deeply.

The High Line’s billboard series is known for transforming advertising space into a platform for thought-provoking public art. Past contributors include Małgorzata Mirga-Tas and Glenn Ligon, and Da Corte’s Soft Power continues that tradition with wit and visual charm.