KAWS

KAWS is the working name of Brian Donnelly, an American artist whose practice encompasses painting, sculpture, editioned objects and design. He began with graffiti in New Jersey and New York, later altering advertising posters and returning them to their public display sites. He studied illustration at the School of Visual Arts.

In 1999 he made the first vinyl Companion figure with the Japanese company Bounty Hunter. Its crossed-out eyes became a recurring feature of his characters. Moving between gallery exhibitions and collaborations with brands including Nike, Dior and Uniqlo, KAWS has treated consumer objects and collectible editions as integral parts of his artistic practice.