Avant-garde artist Yayoi Kusama dies at 97

Yayoi Kusama, the iconic Japanese artist celebrated globally as the "queen of polka dots," has died at the age of 97. Her passing was announced by her company, which stated she died in a Tokyo hospital on August 14, 2026.

Born in 1929, Kusama became instantly recognizable for her vibrant red bob and bold, polka-dot-covered attire. Her artistic career spanned decades, during which she gained international acclaim for her immersive installations and poetic creations. These works often drew inspiration from the hallucinations she experienced since childhood, transforming her inner world into striking visual experiences for audiences worldwide.

Kusama's unique artistic vision and prolific output left an indelible mark on the contemporary art scene. Her instantly identifiable motifs and large-scale installations invited viewers into surreal environments, challenging perceptions and evoking a sense of wonder. The announcement of her death marks the end of an era for a truly singular artistic voice.

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It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Yayoi Kusama in a Tokyo hospital on August 14, 2026, at the age of 97.