what is kaws

KAWS is an American artist and designer, born as Brian Donnelly on November 4, 1974. He is known for his unique style that involves adding cartoon-like figures to bus-shelter advertisements. KAWSs work includes repeated use of a cast of figurative characters and motifs, some dating back to the beginning of his career in the 1990s, initially painted in 2D and later realized in 3D. Some of his characters are his own creations while others are reworked versions of existing icons. KAWSs success on social media has been a big factor in his surge to the forefront of the contemporary art world. He has designed limited edition toys and clothing for well-known companies such as Nike, Vans, A Bathing Ape, and Original Fake. KAWSs art stands somewhere between fine art and global commerce. Some of his most famous works include the Companion, a skull-like figure with crossbones, and an enormous grey figure based on Mickey Mouse called Companion. KAWS is represented by Skarstedt Gallery, New York.