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Yayoi Kusama, Japanese avant-garde artist, dies at 97

Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, known for her polka dot patterns, has passed away at the age of 97, according to her agency.

27 August 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: Yayoi Kusama, Japanese avant-garde artist, dies at 97 — Archive photoPhoto: 内閣官房内閣広報室 · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 4.0

Yayoi Kusama, the renowned Japanese avant-garde artist known as the 'queen of polka dots', has died at the age of 97. Her death was announced in a statement from her agency, indicating that she passed away on August 14, 2026, at a hospital in Tokyo.

Kusama made a significant mark on the art world with her immersive and poetic installations, built around polka dot motifs. She was celebrated internationally for her colorful designs and repetitive patterns, becoming an iconic figure in contemporary art.

According to her official website, the artist continued to paint until her last days, demonstrating an unwavering passion for her art. Her career spanned several decades, during which she established her fame, especially following a lengthy stay in a psychiatric institution.

Sources indicate that the artist managed to captivate the 21st-century audience, achieving superstar status. Her notoriety allowed her to exhibit her works in numerous museums and galleries worldwide, contributing to her recognition as a cultural icon.

Kusama's death has prompted a wave of tributes from many artists and admirers, who have highlighted the impact she had on generations of artists and on the contemporary art landscape. Her influence will undoubtedly endure beyond her lifetime.

The news of her passing has been reported by various media outlets, marking the loss of an artist who transcended the boundaries of art with her unique and moving creations. Her works will continue to inspire millions of people around the world.

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