"I think when I started painting on advertisements, it occurred to me that the person looking at these ads had no idea who made them. So I felt like, 'If they don't know who made them, they won't know who's remaking them.'"

KAWS (b. 1974, Jersey City, New Jersey) is the professional name of Brian Donnelly, an American artist and designer who has emerged as one of the most commercially successful artists of his generation. Known for his distinctive visual language that remixes pop culture icons into a universe of recurring characters with X-ed out eyes and skull-and-crossbones heads, KAWS creates work that bridges the worlds of fine art, commercial design, and street culture. His practice spans painting, sculpture, limited edition toys, clothing, and collaborations with global brands, establishing him as a pivotal figure in the contemporary art world's engagement with consumer culture.

KAWS began his career as a graffiti artist in the 1990s, gaining notoriety by subverting advertisements on phone booths, bus shelters, and billboards. After working as an animator for Disney, contributing to shows like "Doug" and "Daria," he transitioned to fine art while maintaining his commercial work. His signature characters—including COMPANION and CHUM, — have evolved from street interventions to monumental sculptures, highly coveted collectibles, and paintings that command millions at auction. From his Brooklyn studio, KAWS has developed a global following that transcends traditional art world boundaries, attracting collectors from contemporary art, street culture, fashion, and design.

KAWS, Man's Best Friend, 2016