Yayoi Kusama

Biography

Yayoi Kusama (born 1929) is a Japanese contemporary artist known for her immersive installations, distinctive use of polka dots, and avant-garde contributions to modern art. Born in Matsumoto, Japan, Kusama experienced vivid hallucinations and obsessive patterns from a young age, which later became central themes in her art. She studied traditional Japanese painting before moving to the United States in the late 1950s, where she became part of the New York avant-garde scene, collaborating with artists such as Andy Warhol and Claes Oldenburg.

Kusama works across multiple media, including painting, sculpture, performance, and installation. Her signature “Infinity Rooms” and large-scale polka-dotted installations create immersive, surreal experiences, exploring concepts of infinity, self-obliteration, and psychological depth. Notable works include Infinity Mirror Rooms and the pumpkin-themed sculptures that have become cultural icons.

Throughout her career, Kusama has addressed themes of mental health, feminism, and the human condition, gaining international acclaim for her visionary approach. Today, she is celebrated as one of the most influential living artists, inspiring audiences worldwide with her creativity, resilience, and unique artistic vision.