Brian Donnelly, aka KAWS, is a Brooklyn based artist and designer.
Following in the footsteps of artists like Kenny Scharf and Keith Haring, KAWS started his career as a graffiti artist in New York. During the 1990s KAWS iconic cartoon-like skull-and-crossbones image could be found appropriating advertisements all over the city. Featured in numerous magazines, KAW’s popularity rocketed and he soon began designing toys and participating in commercial collaborations with names such as Burton, Nike, Vans and Comme des Garcons.
In the fine art world, KAWS is known for his paintings and prints that feature subverted versions of highly iconic pop culture symbols including Mickey Mouse, Spongebob, The Smurfs, the Michelin Man and the Simpsons. These instantly recognisable images with a KAWS twist have made him into an art world hit. His paintings – limited edition prints and originals – are available for sale in many exclusive galleries and boutiques.
