A new site-specific installation for the courtyard of Palazzo Strozzi opens up a new perspective on Renaissance architecture.

Creativity can manifest itself in a thousand different ways: from street art to sculpture, not to mention collaborations with fashion brands and the world of television. KAWS, born Brian Donnelly, knows this well. He is, in every sense, one of the most appreciated artists by major collectors and beyond: one of the trendiest names of the moment, and some say he could even cast a shadow over Banksy’s great genius.
Born in Jersey City in 1974, he has been fascinated by graffiti and underground culture since he was a teenager.
After moving to New York, he graduated in 1996 from the School of Visual Arts in Manhattan and began collaborating with Walt Disney, working mainly as an illustrator. His desire to experiment with creativity through ever-changing forms and tools allowed him to establish himself first in television, then as a sculptor and street artist, and today as a designer for several well-known clothing brands.
KAWS brings toys, illustrations and pop culture into museums around the world. His paintings abstract familiar imagery through shifts in perspective, bold color combinations and sharp lines; his characters and figures fade into our imagination. KAWS is a master of collaborations: his projects range from a recent clothing line with the brand Sacai to partnerships with Uniqlo, Sesame Street, Star War… followed by a long one etc.