Brooklyn boutique says it has tried repeatedly to contact Kelly Clarkson over mechanical bird dispute

The Art of Play boutique in Brooklyn says it has attempted to contact singer Kelly Clarkson through several channels after a public dispute over a $15,000 mechanical bird displayed in the store. A source for the shop told Page Six that no response has been received from Clarkson.

According to the store, the controversy has drawn attention from local residents and visitors, with neighboring businesses reportedly leaving gift bags and flowers. The boutique, which sells collectible cards, puzzles, games and other whimsical home items, says it has seen a rise in foot traffic, with customers stopping by to photograph the mechanical bird, nicknamed “Molly.”

Clarkson posted on X last weekend, claiming she felt she was treated condescendingly during her visit and that the bird was not for sale despite a price tag on the wall. She later posted a follow-up message accusing the store of lying about the bird’s availability.

Store co-owner Adam Rubin said Clarkson inquired about the bird, which is permanently attached to a wall and not listed for sale. He explained that the piece is a custom automaton that takes years to produce and that the shop would need to negotiate with the artist if a serious buyer emerged. Rubin added that staff offered to show a similar, lower-priced automaton and that no one in the store recognized Clarkson.

Rubin said the shop has received a large volume of online messages since the incident and that Clarkson’s representatives have not responded to requests for comment. He also stated that Clarkson is welcome to return to the store at any time.

Leaked security footage shows Clarkson browsing the shop for less than five minutes before leaving, appearing to express dissatisfaction with staff before exiting.