Imagine the delight of receiving birthday wishes inside a handmade card, crafted by someone who shares your birthday, but whom you’ve never met.
That’s the magic behind Hong Kong–based Japanese artist and architect Hikoko Ito’s joyous installation, Happy Birthday 2U2. She has constructed 366 mailboxes – one for every birthday of the year. Each box contains a birthday card, illustrated with an artwork she has selected from the Art Gallery of New South Wales collection, made and left by someone with that birthday. Visitors of all ages are invited to find their own birthday mailbox and take home their own, special, birthday card.
Then, having received their good wishes they return the favour, crafting another card to be found by the next visitor, their ‘twin’, who shares their birthday. Incorporating cards from children in schools from across Sydney and Hong Kong, this interactive work celebrates the happiness of making connections.
In a world of virtual messages that often feel remote, Hikoko Ito invites us all to experience the warmth of this universal celebration.
Event Details:
Dates: 15 March – 17 August 2025
Location: Art Gallery of New South Wales - Naala Nura, our south building - Lower level 2
Cost: Free