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The Bopiliao Pool sparks controversy over alleged plagiarism of Kanazawa Museum of Art design; closed indefinitely

Published: 2026-09-24 👁 100 views
Last updated 2026-09-24 — Kaohsiung’s Bopiliao Art Zone recently unveiled a new public art installation “Pool Rooftop,” attracting many visitors for photos and check-ins, but it has also been accused of plagiarizing a renowned artwork by artist Leandro Erlich...

Text / Edited and reported by the MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Team
 

Kaohsiung’s Bopiliao Art Zone recently unveiled a new public art installation “Pool Rooftop,” constructing two pools on the flat roofs of two Dayi warehouses within the zone. One of the pool installations on the C8 rooftop uses large transparent glass to separate the underwater space, creating an optical illusion that allows visitors above the pool to interact with those below, adding an element of fun. However, the same design concept was accused of copying artist Leandro Erlich’s famous work “The Swimming Pool,” sparking widespread backlash. On the 19th, the Bopiliao Art Zone issued a statement announcing the indefinite closure of the Pool Rooftop installation.

Bopiliao Art Zone’s public art piece “Pool Rooftop” embroiled in plagiarism scandal. (Image source / Bopiliao Art Zone)

Bopiliao Art Zone launched the hidden public art piece “Pool Rooftop” in early July, building two pools on the flat roofs of two warehouses in the zone. The pool on the C8 rooftop uses large transparent glass to create an optical illusion separating the underwater space, allowing visitors above to interact with those below, creating a playful experience. However, the same design concept was accused of plagiarizing artist Leandro Erlich’s iconic work “The Swimming Pool,” drawing criticism from netizens and artists. On the 19th, Bopiliao Art Zone stated that it deeply regretted referencing artist Leandro Erlich’s “The Swimming Pool” concept, which caused concerns, and has now closed the Pool Rooftop public art installation indefinitely.

The artwork “The Swimming Pool” at the Kanazawa Museum of 21st Century Art. (Image provided / Mook Publishing)

Using the concept of optical illusion to allow interaction between visitors in the upper and lower worlds. (Image provided / Mook Publishing)

The Kanazawa Museum of 21st Century Art features a modern design. (Image provided / Mook Publishing)

The artwork “The Swimming Pool (The Swimming Pool)” created by Argentine artist Leandro Erlich employs the optical illusion concept of a pool, water, and glass, using different methods to enable interaction between viewers inside and outside the pool. The piece is currently housed in the Kanazawa Museum of 21st Century Art in Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan.

[Info]
Kanazawa Museum of 21st Century Art
Address: Ishikawa [incomplete address] – 1

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》http://www.mook.com.tw/article.php?op=articleinfo&articleid=11928

 

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