Japanese Polka Dot Artist Yayoi Kusama Dies at 97

Japanese avant-garde artist Yayoi Kusama, celebrated worldwide as the "polka dot queen," has died at the age of 97. Her foundation confirmed her passing on August 14 in Tokyo due to multi-organ failure.

Born in Nagano Prefecture, Kusama became a global icon through her distinctive works, including recurring polka dot motifs, pumpkin sculptures, and immersive mirror installations. Her career, spanning over six decades, established her as one of the most popular and commercially successful artists, with her paintings fetching millions at auction.

Kusama's art was deeply intertwined with her personal experiences. She began experiencing hallucinations from a young age, which she channeled into her art as a coping mechanism. After studying painting in Kyoto, she moved to New York in 1957, where she produced large-scale paintings and soft sculptures. During her time in the U.S., she also organized body painting festivals and fashion shows, some of which served as protests against the Vietnam War and other social issues.

Returning to Japan in 1973, Kusama continued her prolific artistic output. In recognition of her contributions, the Japanese government awarded her the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette, in 2006. Her "Infinity Mirror Rooms" gained immense popularity in recent years, amplified by social media platforms like Instagram. A museum dedicated to her work opened in Tokyo in 2017, further cementing her legacy as a pioneering figure in contemporary art. She was also recognized by TIME magazine as one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World in 2016.