The art world mourns the passing of renowned artist Yayoi Kusama (草間 彌生), who passed away earlier this month, on 14th August 2026 (Friday). She was 97.
Her company, Yayoi Kusama Inc, belatedly announced the news of her passing earlier today (Thursday, 27th August 2026). In the statement shared on her official website, her company writes, “It is with profound sorrow that (we announce) the passing of Yayoi Kusama at a hospital in Tokyo on August 14, 2026, at the age of 97.”
The company’s statement continues with a tribute to the eccentric artist, “Throughout an extraordinary lifetime devoted entirely to artistic creation, Kusama pursued an internationally acclaimed career as a pioneering avant-garde artist whose creative practice encompassed visual art, performance, fiction, and poetry.”
The company ends its statement, writing, “We will carry forward Kusama’s wishes and, through art, continue to bring hope and strength for the future to people around the world.” The announcement didn’t share the cause of death, but it’s believed the late artist passed away due to natural causes.
One of the world’s most recognisable artists, Yayoi Kusama is best known for her “infinity mirror room” installations and use of polka dots and bright colours. Among her many recurring motifs is the pumpkin, which is present in many of her exhibitions around the world.
Yayoi Kusama’s work is also seen in luxury fashion. Her first collaboration with Louis Vuitton came in 2012 in a collection that extended to leather goods, shoes and accessories. In 2023, the artist and the fashion house unveiled their second collaboration collection. Both collections featured her iconic polka dot motif and were a huge success.
Following the news of her passing, many figures and establishments in the art world have paid tribute to Yayoi Kusama and her decades-long career. Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam, which is set to hold an exhibition of her work later this year, said the exhibition will now become a posthumous tribute to her life and work.
We extend our condolences to Yayoi Kusama’s family and loved ones. We hope they can find strength during this difficult time. May Yayoi Kusama rest in peace, and may her art live on for years to come.
Sources: Yayoi Kusama Inc, The Guardian, BBC
