Artwork Description
Companion Flayed- Blush Red Limited Edition Vinyl Art Toy Collectible Artwork by Modern Pop Artist Kaws.
2016 Unopened Package Limited Open Edition 10.5 X 4.5 X 2.5 / 16.7 X 11.4 X 6.4 CM
KAWS' Companion Flayed in Blush Red: A Vibrant Expression in Street Pop Art
The Companion Flayed in Blush Red is a vibrant beacon in the expansive body of work by KAWS, the renowned modern pop artist. As part of a comprehensive series launched in 2016, this limited open edition piece captivates with its striking color and intricate design. Enclosed in its original, unopened packaging, the figure measures 10.5 x 4.5 x 2.5 inches and profoundly expresses the interplay between street art sensibilities and the collectible art toy market. KAWS, real name Brian Donnelly, has established a legacy of creating figures that resonate deeply with Street Pop Art and Graffiti Artwork motifs. The Companion, perhaps his most famous creation, has been reimagined in various forms, each revealing a different aspect of its character and the artist's philosophy. The flayed versions, such as this one in blush red, lay bare the internal workings of the figure, offering a literal and figurative dissection of its form.
The Cultural Resonance of KAWS' Companion Series
The Companion Flayed Blush Red Edition embodies a significant cultural moment for KAWS and the broader art world, coinciding with his acclaimed "Where The End Starts" exhibition in Fort Worth, Texas. Like its counterparts, this figure stands at 11 inches tall, embodying a commanding and intimate presence. Released through platforms such as KAWSONE, MoMA, and the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, the Companion series signifies the acceptance and celebration of street-influenced art within prestigious art spaces. The Companion Flayed series, with its exposed and vibrant innards, is a powerful commentary on the nature of emotional and physical exposure. The blush red colorway adds a dimension of warmth and connectivity, contrasting with street art's often cold and impersonal perception. KAWS plays with the dichotomy of the inner self versus the outer persona, inviting contemplation on the complexities of identity and the facades we maintain.
Impact and Collectibility of KAWS' Flayed Companions
The Companion Flayed Blush Red edition is not only a visually striking piece but also one of high collectible value. The decision to release the figure in an open edition format reflects KAWS' desire to democratize art ownership, allowing more enthusiasts to possess a piece of his vision. This approach aligns with the ethos of street art, which traditionally emphasizes accessibility and community engagement. With its unopened packaging and pristine condition, this particular edition is a coveted item for collectors of modern art toys and followers of KAWS alike. The piece's aesthetic appeal and significance in the trajectory of street pop art and graffiti artwork make it a multifaceted artwork that is both a cultural artifact and a testament to KAWS's enduring impact on contemporary art. The Companion Flayed in Blush Red is a bold statement on the permeable boundaries between commercial art, street culture, and fine art, a boundary that KAWS navigates with unparalleled finesse.
