Critical Review
Companion vs Pikachu is a signed screen print on black stock paper produced by renowned American artist and designer, KAWS in 2002. The print depicts Companion, one of KAWS’ best-known cartoon characters, who appears to be attacking the much-loved cartoon character, Pikachu. The print is rendered using white lines against a black backdrop. The simple design is striking and showcases KAWS’ excellent draughtsmanship and expertise in illustration.
Companion vs Pikachu is part of the Companion collection, a body of works made by KAWS, all of which depict his original cartoon character, Companion. This print can also be seen alongside Astro Boy Vs Pikachu, 2002 and Companion Vs Astroboy, 2002, both of which are rendered in a similar simple and understated style. In this print, KAWS expertly merges his own cartoon creation, Companion, with the universally recognised character, Pikachu, from the Japanese video game, Pokémon.
As seen in this print, Companion is characterised by his distinct shape which is reminiscent of Mickey Mouse as well as his skull and crossbone head and crossed out eyes. In addition to creating his own stock of original cartoon characters, KAWS has also adapted other familiar figures such as Mickey Mouse, The Smurfs, and The Simpsons, always in his characteristic, slightly morbid, visual style.
