Japanese Avant-Garde Artist Yayoi Kusama Passes Away at 97

Japanese avant-garde artist Yayoi Kusama, who became a global cultural icon with her colorful polka-dot sculptures, infinity rooms, and giant pumpkin works, has passed away at a hospital in Tokyo at the age of 97.

Announcement of the Artist's Passing

According to an official statement made by her company, world-renowned avant-garde artist Yayoi Kusama passed away on August 14 at a hospital in Tokyo. Kusama had been continuing her work from the psychiatric hospital where she had voluntarily resided for many years.

Early Life and New York Years

Born in 1929 in the town of Matsumoto in Nagano Prefecture, Japan, the artist faced difficulties in New York's male-dominated art scene in the 1960s. Although she did not receive the attention she deserved in the early periods, she managed to create a huge resonance with her exhibitions.

Infinity Rooms and Global Success

Created in 1965 using mirrors and lights to evoke a sense of infinity, the 'Infinity Mirror Rooms' attracted the interest of millions of visitors. Her polka-dot and pumpkin-themed works later ranked among the most sought-after pieces of art worldwide.

Psychiatric Treatment and Late-Life Fame

Continuing to work while receiving treatment at the psychiatric center where she spent the rest of her life, Kusama transformed into a global phenomenon in her 80s and 90s. The artist's works fetched record-high prices among female artists.

International Exhibitions and Records

As the first solo artist to represent Japan at the 1993 Venice Biennale, Kusama opened major exhibitions all over the world, including the Tate Modern in London. In 2022, one of her paintings sold at an auction for approximately $10.5 million.