NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedAugust 27, 2026Miami-Dade
Renowned Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama dies at 97
Yayoi Kusama, the internationally recognized artist famous for her signature polka-dot motifs, passed away on August 14, 2012, in Tokyo at the age of 97. Her studio confirmed her death, noting that she continued to create art until her final days.
Read the full story at WPLG Local 10 – Main FeedWhy It Matters
The death of Yayoi Kusama marks the end of a career that significantly influenced contemporary art, fashion, and global museum installations for over six decades.
Key Facts
- Yayoi Kusama died on August 14, 2012, at the age of 97 in a Tokyo hospital.
- Kusama was a prominent contemporary artist known for repetitive motifs, particularly polka dots.
- She moved to New York in 1957 to pursue her art career.
- In 2008, one of her works was auctioned by Christie’s for $5.8 million.
- She received Japan's Order of Culture award in 2016.
- Kusama struggled with mental health issues and spent time in psychiatric institutions throughout her life.
- Her work was featured in major institutions including the Museum of Modern Art and the Whitney Museum of American Art.
Who's Mentioned
organizationLouis Vuitton“Fashion brand that collaborated with Kusama.”organizationWhitney Museum of American Art“Museum that exhibited Kusama's work.”organizationMuseum Ludwig“Museum that exhibited Kusama's work.”organizationChristie’s“Auction house that sold Kusama's work.”organizationYayoi Kusama Studio“The studio that confirmed the artist's death.”personAndy Warhol“Artist and acquaintance of Kusama.”personYayoi Kusama“Japanese artist known for polka-dot motifs.”personJoseph Cornell“Artist and acquaintance of Kusama.”organizationMuseum of Modern Art“Museum that exhibited Kusama's work.”locationTokyo“Location of the artist's death and hospital.”personGeorgia O'Keeffe“Artist and acquaintance of Kusama.”