KAWS TIME OUT Exhibition Gallery Skarstedt Paris FRI
It has been over a decade since KAWS exhibited in Paris. A lot has changed in the art world in that time, especially for the street artist-turned-global icon — from his partnerships with Fortnite, AllRightsReserved, and General Mills to his vinyl figure rotator belt and a solo show at the Brooklyn Museum. For his latest solo show, KAWS reflects on the very concept of time at Galerie Skarstedt in Paris.
The works a TIME OUT strain back to NO EXIT, an earlier painting created by the artist in 2020 at the height of confinement. In contrast to the latter’s narrative depictions, KAWS’ latest paintings are more introspective – serving as a reflection on the ephemeral nature of time. CHUM, the artist’s Michelin Man-inspired character, features in each painting, shackled between vibrant bars, giving the viewer a sense of isolation. This sense of confusion and uncertainty begins to project outward in works such as THE PRICE OF PERFORMANCE And FOG FUTUREthe artistic interpretation of the socio-political tensions of the present.
Photo: Karl Hab.
Despite the somber undertones, KAWS maintains a sense of optimism through its choice of colors, invoking English poet John Keats’ idea of ”negative ability” – or finding beauty out of darkness. A number of high-profile celebrities were in attendance on opening day, including Pusha T and Pharrell Williams, Louis Vuitton’s new menswear creative director. Experience the exhibition for yourself, as TIME OUT can be seen in Skarstedt Paris until April 22nd.
Across the canal, Banksy’s latest work of art was demolished shortly after completion.
Skarstedt Gallery
2 Avenue Matignon
75008, Paris, France
