Last updated: 27 October 2026
KAWS is the New York artist Brian Donnelly, who turned graffiti into cartoon sculptures such as COMPANION. Here you will find our take on his work and his 2026 museum shows.
Our take on KAWS
Born in Jersey City in 1974, Brian Donnelly studied at the School of Visual Arts in New York, graduating in 1996, and lives in Brooklyn, according to Mary Boone Gallery.
Graffiti came first. “When I was a kid, my first introduction to art came through graffiti, skateboarding and the Pop Shop,” he told the Albertina. “I remember the way Keith Haring’s art made me feel comfortable walking into a gallery or a museum.”
His characters, from COMPANION to BFF and CHUM, came together in the bronze FAMILY (2021), which gave its name to his San Francisco survey.
KAWS: the essentials
- Real name Brian Donnelly; born in Jersey City, New Jersey, in 1974.
- BFA from the School of Visual Arts, New York, 1996; lives in Brooklyn.
- Shown by Galerie Max Hetzler.
- Named on the first TIME100 Art list in 2026, according to Max Hetzler.
KAWS exhibitions
- On now: FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS, solo show, Space K, Seoul, 23 July to 27 December 2026, his first institutional show in Korea.
- HARD EDGE(D) (group), Kunstmuseum Schloss Derneburg, Germany, from 13 June 2026.
- KAWS. Art & Comix, Albertina Modern, Vienna, 3 April to 27 September 2026.
- KAWS: FAMILY, SFMOMA, San Francisco, 15 November 2025 to 3 May 2026.
- We found no current UK exhibition.
KAWS FAQs
What is KAWS’s real name?
Brian Donnelly. He was born in Jersey City in 1974.
What is a KAWS COMPANION?
His best-known character: a cartoon figure with crossed-out eyes. It appears with BFF and CHUM in the bronze FAMILY (2021).
Where can I see KAWS now?
At Space K in Seoul until 27 December 2026, and in a group show at Kunstmuseum Schloss Derneburg in Germany.
More from CoolCuration
- Playing Arts: card decks drawn by artists from around the world.
- Great Art Explained: James Payne’s guide to how famous works were made.
- Best affordable art in the UK: where to start collecting prints.
- Gifts for artists: our edit of presents for people who make things.
Think we’re missing something, got something wrong, or want to be featured? Contact us.
Main image: KAWS, ALONG THE WAY, 2013. Photo: Michael Biondo, courtesy Galerie Max Hetzler. Framed by CoolCuration. Exhibition dates and prices last checked: 27 October 2026.
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