American,  b. 1974

Jeff Koons is an American artist known for his giant, reflective sculptures that blur the line between high and low art. Growing up, he was fascinated by popular culture, a theme that would permeate his work. After studying art in Chicago and Baltimore, Koons launched his career in the 1980s with controversial, inflatable recreations of everyday objects.

Koons's signature style emerged with his use of stainless steel to create balloon animal sculptures like his famous "Balloon Dog." These playful, oversized figures challenged traditional notions of art by referencing childhood toys. He often uses mass production techniques, blurring the lines between art and commerce.

Koons's work is highly polarizing. Some admire its humor and accessibility, while others criticize it as kitsch and lacking depth. Regardless, Koons's record-breaking auction sales have cemented his place as a major figure in contemporary art.

Jeff Koons in his studio, 1997. Credits: Ellen Von Unwerth/Art+Commerce