KAWS TOKYO FIRST Returns to Japan Two Decades Later
An extensive showcase featuring augmented reality, interactive experiences, and the artist’s private collection.
“KAWS TOKYO FIRST” will be Japan‘s first large-scale exhibition featuring prominent Brooklyn-based artist KAWS. The showcase presents more than 150 artworks ranging from fine art to commercial products and spans from his earliest works to his latest.
“KAWS TOKYO FIRST” was the same title used in KAWS’ first exhibition in Japan held at Shibuya Parco in 2001. Two decades later, the graffiti artist arrives back in Tokyo with the idea of “returning to the origin”, this time presenting a body of work honoring the past while reaching for newfound heights.
Found among the figurines and paintings, guests are treated to augmented reality works and “KAWS: PLAYTIME” interactive experiences for children. To create a studio atmosphere, KAWS’ own private art collection will also be on display.
“I have always felt a strong connection with Japanese culture. And it has always been a great source of motivation and inspiration for my creative activities. I am very much looking forward to seeing many of my works over the past 20 years at this exhibition, and showing Japanese people the new paintings and sculptures for the first time. Please enjoy the exhibition,” said KAWS.
Tickets for the exhibition will be available for reservation beginning July 1 and will cost ¥2,500 JPY (approximately $23 USD) for the weekdays and ¥2,800 JPY (approximately $25 USD) for the weekends and holidays. Commemorative merchandise will be available for purchase on the exhibition website.
The works will be shown at the Mori Arts Center Gallery from July 16 to October 11.
Elsewhere in the art world, teamLab launches a major solo exhibition at San Francisco’s Asian Art Museum.
