The “KAWS: FAMILY” traveling exhibit is now on display at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, offering visitors a unique look at innovative art and relatable family dynamics. Running from March 15 to July 28, the exhibit showcases iconic characters and sculptures by Brooklyn-based artist KAWS, whose real name is Brian Donnelly. The exhibit’s centerpiece is the sculpture “FAMILY” (2021), which features four of KAWS’ characters—Chum, BFF, and Companion—posed in the style of a family portrait.
These characters are known for their exaggerated expressions and interactions that explore themes of human emotions and relationships. Alejo Benedetti, the Crystal Bridges art curator, emphasizes the importance of these character dynamics. “This is one of the things we will continue to see as we walk through,” Benedetti explains.
“Not just the individual characters but also how they interact with one another, the different gestures that [KAWS] plays with, and the different scales that [KAWS] manipulates.”
Besides sculptures, the exhibit features paintings, sketches, and product collaborations spanning KAWS’ 30-year career. One notable series is “The KIMPSONS,” a reinterpretation of The Simpsons family through KAWS’ unique lens.
Exhibit explores modern family dynamics
In “Untitled (Kimpsons #3),” the Simpson family members are depicted as KAWS’ character Companion. KAWS combines different art forms by incorporating elements from popular culture into his work. His inspiration from Japanese toy collectors is evident in “The KIMPSONS” series, where he blends physical sculptures with two-dimensional paintings behind plastic packaging.
Among his many collaborations, KAWS pays tribute to Snoopy from Charles Schulz’s “Peanuts” comic strip in the “Man’s Best Friend” series. By manipulating black and white lines, KAWS retains Snoopy’s iconic image while offering a fresh perspective. An interactive experience at the end of the exhibit invites visitors to draw a friend for a lonely version of BFF, adding a personal touch to their visit.
The “KAWS: FAMILY” exhibit at Crystal Bridges offers a profound exploration of family dynamics through playful, thought-provoking art. Tickets are available online or in person at the museum.
Photo by; Alex Haney on Unsplash
