KAWS, born Brian Donnelly in 1974, has transformed from a street artist into one of the most recognisable names in contemporary art. Known for his distinct style that blends popular culture with fine art, he has captivated audiences worldwide with his toys, sculptures, and large-scale installations. Here are 10 facts about KAWS that every art enthusiast should know.
Art Basel 2023
- From Street Art to Gallery Star
KAWS began his career as a graffiti artist in New York, tagging buildings and bus stops with his signature style. His pseudonym, KAWS, doesn’t carry any particular meaning. Instead, he chose it because he liked the way the letters worked together. This early exposure to graffiti influenced his later works, blending street culture with high art.
- Inventor of ‘Subvertising’
KAWS became well known for his ‘subvertising’—a technique where he would remove advertisements from phone booths and replace them with his own artwork. His style involved adding cartoon-like characters to adverts, cleverly critiquing consumerism. This blend of art and commentary attracted attention, setting him apart from other street artists.
- Creator of the 'Companion' Character
In 1999, KAWS designed one of his most iconic characters, ‘Companion’, in collaboration with Japanese toy company Bounty Hunter. The figure, resembling a Mickey Mouse-like character with X-ed out eyes, has become one of KAWS' most recognisable motifs. This figure has appeared in various forms, from vinyl toys to large-scale sculptures.
- A Global Sensation
KAWS’ appeal extends beyond the art world. His work has transcended the confines of traditional galleries, appearing in public spaces and collaborations with major brands. Collaborations with fashion giants like Dior and Nike have propelled his art into mainstream culture, and his toys and prints are highly sought-after collectibles.
- Art That Crosses Borders
Although KAWS is rooted in street art, he has found enormous success in fine art circles. His pieces often fetch millions at auction, with works like Untitled (Kimpsons No.1) selling for £6 million at Sotheby’s in Hong Kong. This ability to bridge the gap between commercial art and fine art is a hallmark of his career.
- Pop Culture Parodies
KAWS’ art often involves the parodying of popular cartoon characters. His take on The Simpsons, called the 'Kimpsons', and his reworking of The Smurfs as the 'Kurfs' are particularly famous. These works, featuring his signature X-ed out eyes and skull motifs, have become some of his most successful at auction.
- Record-Breaking Sales
In 2019, KAWS’ work THE KAWS ALBUM, a parody of The Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band album cover, sold for HK$115.9 million (around £11 million). This was nearly 15 times its original estimate, demonstrating KAWS' huge appeal in the global art market.
- Inspired by Graffiti Legends
KAWS was influenced by graffiti legends such as Futura 2000. Much like Futura, KAWS has moved beyond the world of street art to collaborate with global brands like Supreme and Levi’s. These partnerships allowed him to bring street culture to the forefront of commercial fashion, further expanding his influence.
- An International Icon
KAWS’ works are displayed around the world, from major cities to rural landscapes. His large-scale sculptures have been installed in locations such as the Yorkshire Sculpture Park in the UK and the Seokchon Lake in Seoul, South Korea, further solidifying his status as an international art phenomenon.
- From Animator to Artist
Before achieving fame as KAWS, Brian Donnelly worked as a background painter for animated series, including Disney's 101 Dalmatians and cult favourites Daria and Doug. His early experience in animation contributed to his unique style, which merges the aesthetic of cartoons with high art.
KAWS’ journey from tagging buildings in New York to collaborating with luxury brands and exhibiting in prestigious galleries is a testament to his versatility and creative vision. His ability to blend street art with popular culture continues to captivate audiences worldwide, making him one of the most influential artists of his generation.
