Yayoi Kusama, artist who turned hallucinations into art, dies at 97

Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, celebrated for her distinctive polka-dot motifs and immersive installations, died in Tokyo at the age of 97.

Kusama's work, often described as avant-garde, drew heavily from her personal experiences, including hallucinations that she transformed into a unique artistic language. Her signature use of repetitive patterns, particularly the ubiquitous polka dots, became a globally recognized symbol of her artistic vision.

Throughout her career, Kusama achieved international acclaim, pushing the boundaries of contemporary art. Her installations, such as the Infinity Mirror Rooms, invited viewers into mesmerizing, seemingly endless spaces, offering a deeply personal and often overwhelming sensory experience. Her passing marks the end of an era for a truly original voice in the art world.