Kelly Clarkson engaged in a dispute with a boutique in Brooklyn over the weekend, claiming she received poor treatment when inquiring about a unique item that the store insists was not for sale. The disagreement began when Clarkson shared on social media that she visited the Brooklyn store, intending to make a purchase but felt snubbed by the staff. She suggested her treatment mirrored a scene from the movie “Pretty Woman.”
The boutique, Art of Play, responded by clarifying that the item Clarkson wanted, a singing and dancing bird automaton named “Molly,” was a permanent fixture and not available for sale. They expressed surprise at the negative attention from people who had not visited the store.
After Clarkson posted a photo showing a price tag next to the automaton, the boutique explained that they offered her a similar piece by the same artist for sale, but Clarkson left before seeing it. The incident sparked debate online, with some supporting Clarkson’s claims while others criticized her for involving her fame in a dispute with a small business. The shop’s response was also questioned for its professionalism.
The automaton, created by artist Bliss Kolb, is a wall-mounted wooden bird that moves realistically when a crank is turned. It is part of a collection of wooden automatons by the artist, ranging in price. The dispute has drawn attention to the unique creation and the importance of respectful customer service in all business interactions.
