Artwork Description
Share Silkscreen Print by Kaws- Brian Donnelly Hand-Pulled on 250gsm Steel Gray Fine Art Paper Limited Edition Artwork.
2021 Released 2022 Signed & Numbered Limited Edition of 500 Artwork Size 16x20 Silkscreen Print of Gray Kaws Companion Accomplice Holding Pink BFF Companion Doll.
The "Share" silkscreen print by KAWS, also known by his real name Brian Donnelly, is a significant piece within the contemporary Street Pop Art movement, exemplifying the convergence of graffiti's raw expressiveness with the meticulous process of fine art printmaking. Released in 2021 and subsequently signed and numbered in 2022, this limited edition artwork embodies the cross-pollination of street culture and high art that has become synonymous with KAWS' oeuvre. As a limited edition of 500, each print holds a place of rarity and exclusivity in the art market.
KAWS: From Graffiti Artist to Global Art Phenomenon
Brian Donnelly, professionally known as KAWS, began his journey in the graffiti subculture in Jersey City. His early work was known for its rebellious nature, often commandeering advertising billboards to introduce his now-iconic characters. Over the years, KAWS has established himself as a significant figure in the global art scene, moving beyond his graffiti roots to embrace a more comprehensive array of mediums, including painting, sculpture, and, as demonstrated by "Share," the traditional silkscreen printing technique.
The Artistic Merit of 'Share'
"Share" is a testament to KAWS's artistic versatility and ability to navigate the complex terrains of street pop art. The artwork features the Gray KAWS Companion holding a pink BFF Companion doll, rendered on 250gsm Steel Gray fine art paper. The choice of steel gray paper not only complements the grayscale of the Companion but also accentuates the vibrant pink of the BFF, creating a visual pop that is both striking and emotionally resonant. The Companions, recurring figures in KAWS' work, are known for their emotive, human-like expressions that communicate universally understood feelings despite their cartoonish forms. Hand-pulling silkscreen prints are labor-intensive and require a high level of skill, reflecting KAWS' dedication to craftsmanship in his work. Each print from the "Share" series is unique due to the nature of the printing process, with subtle variations that make each piece a singular work of art. The edition size 500, while relatively small in mass-produced goods, is significantly oversized for handcrafted artwork, indicating KAWS' intention to make his art more accessible to the public.
The Cultural Impact of KAWS' Limited Edition Prints
KAWS' limited edition prints, such as "Share," play a crucial role in the democratization of art. They allow a broader audience to engage with and own a work from an artist highly regarded in the street and OK art domains. These prints often act as an entry point for new art collectors and enthusiasts, bridging the divide between exclusive art circles and the wider public who may be more familiar with street art and graffiti. Furthermore, the presence of KAWS' work in galleries and streetwear stores highlights the fluidity with which his art traverses different cultural landscapes. "Share," in particular, with its poignant depiction of companionship and care, has become a symbolic image that resonates on multiple social, emotional, and cultural levels. It speaks to the enduring human need for connection, a theme often explored in Street Pop Art and Graffiti Artwork.
KAWS' Role in the Evolution of Street Art
The release of silkscreen prints like "Share" also underscores the evolution of street art from its clandestine beginnings to its current status as a recognized and celebrated art form. Through his meticulous translation of graffiti aesthetics into fine art printmaking, KAWS has played a pivotal role in this transformation. His work challenges traditional notions of what constitutes art and who can be considered an artist, expanding the audience and the understanding of Street Pop Art. In essence, KAWS' "Share" is a powerful reflection of the ethos of Street Pop Art. It encapsulates the vibrancy of street culture while embracing the sophistication of fine art. As a limited edition silkscreen print, it stands as a cultural artifact that captures the zeitgeist of the 21st century, blurring the lines between high art and popular culture and resonating with a diverse and global audience. Through works like "Share," KAWS continues redefining the boundaries of art, ensuring that his legacy will be felt for generations.
