Yayoi Kusama (b. 1929) is a pioneering Japanese artist known for her immersive installations, vibrant paintings, and iconic polka dot motifs. Born in Matsumoto, Japan, she began drawing at a young age and moved to New York City in 1957 to pursue her art career. Kusama quickly became involved in the vibrant avant-garde scene of the 1960s, where she developed her signature style and themes.
Kusama's work spans a variety of media, including painting, sculpture, performance, and installation art. She is particularly famous for her immersive environments, such as the "Infinity Mirror Rooms," which create a sense of endlessness through reflections and lights. Her use of polka dots and nets symbolizes her fascination with repetition, infinity, and the cosmos, often reflecting her personal experiences with mental health.
Throughout her career, Kusama has received widespread acclaim, becoming one of the most recognized and influential contemporary artists in the world. Her work has been exhibited in major museums and galleries globally, including the Tate Modern and the Museum of Modern Art in New York.