Brian Donnelly, known professionally as KAWS, is a Brooklyn-based artist and designer whose work seamlessly merges fine art, street culture, and commercial design.
Born in 1974 in Jersey City, New Jersey, KAWS began his artistic journey as a graffiti artist in the early 1990s. He later earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in illustration from the School of Visual Arts in New York City in 1996. His early career included working as a background painter for animated series such as 101 Dalmatians, Daria, and Doug .
KAWS gained initial recognition through his subversive street art, where he appropriated and reimagined familiar characters from popular culture. His most iconic creation, the Companion, features a skull-faced figure with "X" eyes, symbolizing a blend of innocence and mortality. This character, along with others like BFF and Chum, has become emblematic of KAWS's exploration of themes such as identity, consumerism, and the interplay between high and low culture.
Beyond street art, KAWS has expanded his practice to include large-scale sculptures, paintings, and limited-edition collectibles. His works are held in prominent public collections, including the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, the Brooklyn Museum, and the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego . KAWS' collaborations with brands like Uniqlo, Dior, and Nike have further solidified his status as a cultural icon, bridging the gap between fine art and commercial design.
KAWS continues to influence contemporary art and design, challenging traditional boundaries and engaging audiences worldwide with his distinctive visual language and thought-provoking creations.
