• By GROVE
  • | Jun 29, 2016

It seems that Bangkok’s art scene has never been bigger—or more in full-view of the public. This Jun 30, American artist Kaws lands in Bangkok and brings with him his latest project, “Kaws: BFF”. The artwork features an eight-meter-tall structure that claims to be Kaws’ biggest yet.

Inspired by concepts of youth and lasting friendships, Kaws has created a giant, fluffy blue cartoon character—similar to the likes of Sesame Street’s Elmo—with a yellow nose and the trademark Kaws crossed-out eyes, who’ll be taking guard of Central Embassy’s outdoor grounds for an entire month.

Presented by Central Embassy and multi-label store Siwalai, along with Hong Kong-based creative studio AllRightsReserved, the giant figurine will sit outside the mall while an exhibition on the ground floor features a collection of Kaws’ best screenprints of various characters as well as favorites like Snoopy.

At Siwilai (5/F, Central Embassy), you can also shop the artist’s line of limited edition products featuring the blue cartoon from Kaws: BFF, ranging from t-shirts to umbrellas to plush toys.

Kaws is a New York-based artist known for his large-scale pop-art sculptures that have showcased around the world from America to France to Hong Kong. He started his career as a graffiti artist before moving on to create billboard advertisements and then to produce his own line of design and vinyl toys, working with companies like A Bathing Ape, Santastic and Medicom. More recently, Kaws has produced artwork for the records of Pharrell Williams and Kanye West.

Some of his most renowned projects, namely 2010’s “Passing Through” and 2015’s “Clean Slate,” have involved large-scale cartoon characters inspired by the likes of The Simpsons, Mickey Mouse and Spongebob Squarepants. Both projects, featuring a grayscale character dubbed “Companion” who resembles a cross between a clown and Mickey Mouse, have hopped from the grounds of Hong Kong’s Harbour City to the bustling streets of New York City.

To catch his work in Bangkok, head over to Central Embassy from Jun 30-Jul 31. The opening exhibition on Jun 30 at 6pm promises a visit from the artist himself, who will be available for meet and greet sessions throughout the day alongside his artwork.


 Brought to you by