Artist Yayoi Kusama, known for polka dot creations, dies aged 97

Renowned Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, celebrated for her iconic polka dot art and giant pumpkins, has passed away at the age of 97. Her company and studio announced her death on Thursday, stating she had spent her life devoted to creating art in various mediums including painting, performance, fiction, and poetry. Kusama continued to paint until her final days, never abandoning her brush and exploring themes of eternal love and soul.

Her immersive infinity room installations were a hit at the Tate Modern in London from 2021 to 2024, and a recent giant silver sphere sculpture, Infinite Accumulation, covered an area of approximately 100 meters. Widely exhibited at institutions like the Museum of Modern Art and the Whitney Museum, Kusama's work also touched fashion and literature, including collaborations with Louis Vuitton.

Distinctly recognized by her orange bob wig, she spent decades in psychiatric institutions. Kusama's friendship with prominent artists like Andy Warhol, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Joseph Cornell showcased her influence in the global art scene. In 2022, her 1959 piece Untitled (Nets) was auctioned for a record-breaking $10.5 million.