Artwork Description
Separated- Grey Limited Edition Vinyl Art Toy Collectible Artwork by street graffiti artist Kaws.
2021 Separated (Grey) Vinyl 7 87/100 × 6 3/10 × 7 9/100 in 20 × 16 × 18 cm Displayed with Box
KAWS and the Ascendance of Street Pop Art
The "Separated" vinyl art toy by KAWS is a remarkable piece that stands as a testament to the fusion of street art sensibilities with the collectible art toy market. KAWS, initially known for his provocative approach to street art, which involved reworking ads in bus shelters and phone booths with his iconic characters, has become a significant figure in the contemporary art world. His work often includes a series of characters that have become instantly recognizable and highly sought after by collectors and the general public alike. The artist known as KAWS, whose real name is Brian Donnelly, is a graduate of the School of Visual Arts in New York. He began his career as a graffiti artist on the streets of Jersey City and quickly gained notoriety for his provocative and humorous adaptations of popular advertisements. Over time, KAWS' work evolved from spray-painted murals to large-scale sculptures and collectible toys, bridging the gap between the underground graffiti world and fine art galleries' elite realm. KAWS' contributions to the world of art have been significant in merging commercialism with street culture, reflecting a unique blend termed "Street Pop Art."
The Significance of 'Separated'
The "Separated" collectible, released in 2021, continues KAWS' exploration of emotion and isolation. It features one of his central characters in a pose that suggests contemplation or sorrow, embodying the loneliness and separation prevalent in modern society. The character is presented in a monochromatic greyscale, a choice that enhances the sad theme of the piece. With this work, KAWS is selling a product and expressing contemporary sentiments, which has always been a cornerstone of Graffiti Artwork. The dimensions of "Separated" are 7 87/100 × 6 3/10 × 7 9/100 inches (approximately 20 × 16 × 18 cm), and the figure is often displayed alongside its box, which itself bears the artwork of KAWS, making the packaging an integral part of the art piece. The item was marketed as an open edition, meaning that rather than being released in a limited quantity, it was produced to meet demand, making KAWS' art more accessible to a broader audience.
Collectibility and Impact on Pop Culture
The collectibility of KAWS' work lies not only in the aesthetic appeal of his designs but also in the way they resonate with contemporary themes of connection and disconnection. As such, KAWS figures like "Separated" serve as art pieces and cultural artifacts that encapsulate the mood of an era. This particular piece is part of a broader trend in which street art has moved from the fringes into the center of popular culture, often carrying poignant social commentary. KAWS' vinyl art toys have become hot commodities in the collectibles market, with some editions selling out within minutes of release. The value of these pieces can be appreciated over time, making them not only a piece of art for display but also an investment. This trend has helped elevate the status of toys and street art, increasing their recognition as legitimate forms of art.
KAWS in the Artistic Pantheon
In terms of his place within the art world, KAWS occupies a unique position where his work is at the intersection of commercial and fine art. His crossover appeal is evident in his collaborations with major brands, musicians, and fashion lines, which have helped to disseminate his work far beyond traditional art spaces. Yet, he maintains a strong presence in art, with exhibitions in major museums and galleries worldwide. The "Separated" figure, especially, encapsulates KAWS' ability to communicate complex emotional states through simplified forms and gestures. The piece reflects the contemporary zeitgeist, addressing themes of isolation and vulnerability that are universal in the human experience. This universality, combined with a distinctive aesthetic, has allowed KAWS to transcend the world of Graffiti Artwork and Street Pop Art to become a globally recognized artist. KAWS' "Separated" is a vinyl art toy that represents much more than its physical form; it stands as a cultural symbol of the times, a commentary on the human condition, and an object of desire for art collectors and enthusiasts. Its release has further solidified KAWS' position as an artist who deftly navigates between various artistic spheres, profoundly impacting each.
