Yayoi Kusama, the celebrated Japanese artist who achieved global fame for her groundbreaking contributions to contemporary art, has died at the age of 97. Her passing was confirmed by her company, Yayoi Kusama Inc., which announced that she died in a Tokyo hospital on August 14, 2026.

Kusama's artistic journey began in the 1950s and spanned decades, during which she created a diverse array of vivid paintings, sculptures, and large-scale installations. Known for her signature polka dots and 'infinity mirror rooms', Kusama's work resonated deeply with audiences, particularly in the age of social media. Her 2024 exhibition in Australia became the most popular in the country’s history, showcasing her ability to connect with the public.

Born in Matsumoto, Japan, in 1929, Kusama experienced a tumultuous childhood marked by an abusive family environment. Despite these challenges, she found solace in art, often drawing the hallucinations that plagued her from a young age. After moving to New York in 1958, she became involved with the art scene, developing her iconic 'infinity net' paintings and participating in numerous avant-garde performances.

Throughout her career, Kusama faced both acclaim and controversy. She was known for her provocative performances, including 'body festivals' featuring naked participants painted in polka dots, and her bold political statements, such as staging New York's first 'homosexual wedding' in 1968. Despite her struggles with mental health, including a long-term stay in a psychiatric hospital, Kusama continued to create art that explored themes of infinity and self-obliteration.

In the later years of her life, Kusama received the recognition she had long deserved, with major retrospectives at prestigious institutions like the Museum of Modern Art in New York and Tate Modern in London. Her installations, characterized by immersive experiences and vibrant colors, became a sensation, drawing large crowds eager to engage with her art.

As an artist who embraced her outsider status, Kusama once reflected, “I cannot imagine how I will be classified after my death. It feels good to be an outsider.” Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of artists and art lovers around the world.