KAWS: transforming street art into coveted collectibles

In the late 1990s, Jersey City artist Brian Donnelly, aka KAWS, revolutioniszed the urban art scene with his unique blend of pop culture and graffiti. His signature style featured vibrant colors, big-eyed characters, and masked figurines that quickly gained attention.

KAWS' 1999 release of the «Companion» vinyl figure marked a turning point. This 8-inch tall grayscale figure, with its trademark XX eyes and skull-and-crossbones head, became an instant hit among collectors. It represented a new era where street art could be transformed into highly sought-after collectibles.

Following Companion's success, KAWS released more coveted figures like Chum, Bendy, and Blitz. High-profile collaborations with brands such as Nike, Hennessy, and Dos Equis further cemented his status. But it was his partnership with UNIQLO that made his art accessible to a broader audience, with t-shirts featuring his iconic XX motif selling out globally.

The value of KAWS figures skyrocketed due to their limited production runs and meticulous craftsmanship. For example, his 4-foot-tall «Seated Companion» sculpture fetched over $400,000 at a 2018 Christie's auction. The same year, his 121-foot-long inflatable «Companion» floated in Hong Kong's Victoria Harbor during Art Basel.

KAWS' influence extends beyond the art world. His instantly recognizable style has permeated pop culture. Designing album covers for Kanye West or creating stage visuals for MTV's Video Music Awards.