KAWS (1974), Holiday (1) (2020)

KAWS (b. 1974) Holiday (1), 2020 Painted cast aluminum 7-1/2 x 36-1/4 x 33-7/8 inches (19.1 x 92.0 x 86.0 cm) Ed. 9/10 Stamped and numbered to the underside PROVENANCE: Skarsdert Gallery, New York; Private collection. EXHIBITED: Skarsdert Gallery, New York, KAWS: Holiday, May 6 - April 7, 2021. KAWS' HOLIDAY offers a unique take on his iconic COMPANION figure. Where his flagship characters typically express their monochromaticity with sombre poses to evoke themes of loneliness, melancholy and gravity, HOLIDAY, presents as refreshingly composed and uplifting. Lying relaxedly supine, with arms outstretched, the sculpture brings attention to the fleeting nature of moments and encourages the viewer to indulge in the simple pleasures of daily life. A significant work, this sculpture offers not simply a considerable insight into the continued development of Kaws' signature style but tells the story of the artist's role in shifting our relationship to the contemporary cityscape of corporate influence and media spectacle. KAWS and AllRightsReserved collaborated on the first iteration of HOLIDAY in 2018 to create a monumental inflatable statue that serenely floated in Seoul's Seokchon Lake. This was followed up with other works appearing in Hong Kong's Victoria Harbour, Taipei's Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, and, most recently, near the base of Mount Fuji. This particular version of the HOLIDAY statue, which happens to be a small detailed aluminium sculpture, possesses a beauty that extends beyond its mere vicariousness. Indeed, it can transport the viewer to a tranquil oasis, providing a much-needed respite from the ongoing severity of current events. Additionally, the artist's impressive skill in recapturing the roundedness and levity of form that characterized its inflatable predecessors is another aspect that contributes to its aesthetic allure. This combination of visual appeal and emotional impact makes this HOLIDAY statue such a compelling work of art. KAWS has masterfully conquered the appropriation of the public space, a strategy and medium he has explored since the 1990s. These interventions expand the audience and address everyday people outside the art world. KAWS is unquestionably one of our generation's most renowned artists and designers. Throughout his oeuvre, he seamlessly blends design, commerce, street culture, and art to create unique artistic humor that repurposes popular cultural themes and images. HID09710052018 © 2022 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved

Condition Report: Comes in crate with packaging. No apparent condition issues.