KAWS Unveils 30-Metre Robot COMPANION Sculpture at Hangzhou's West Lake

Artist KAWS, in collaboration with AllRightsReserved, has launched the latest iteration of his "KAWS:HOLIDAY" exhibition in Hangzhou, China, featuring a monumental new robot-form COMPANION sculpture situated beside the iconic West Lake. This significant installation, presented in partnership with local entity WESTLAKE 66, measures 30 metres in length and is strategically placed at "Orioles Singing in the Willows," a renowned location within the UNESCO World Heritage-listed West Lake, coinciding with the blooming osmanthus season and the Mid-Autumn Festival. The sculpture reimagines KAWS's signature COMPANION figure with a futuristic, robot-inspired aesthetic. Its distinctive soft yellow hue is inspired by the osmanthus flower, Hangzhou's official city flower. The colossal figure is depicted in a reclining posture, gazing upwards towards the moon and sky, a pose that evokes contemplation of the Mid-Autumn light. The robot body of the sculpture serves as a deliberate homage to Hangzhou's prominence as a leading center for the digital economy, internet innovation, and robotics. This contemporary element is juxtaposed with the traditional Chinese practice of moon gazing by the lake, creating a dialogue between classical landscapes and modern technological advancements. The exhibition is situated within a culturally significant UNESCO World Heritage site, and access to the scenic area where the sculpture is displayed is provided free of charge. Complementing the large-scale sculpture is an exclusive collection of merchandise designed to appeal to collectors and enthusiasts. The centerpiece of this collection is a new robot-form COMPANION vinyl figure, standing approximately 10 inches tall. This collectible is available in both gloss-finish yellow and matte black variations. Each vinyl figure is housed in a specially designed plastic box featuring embossed detailing and incorporates an NFC authenticity chip, ensuring its provenance. This smaller-scale figure effectively translates the design concept of the monumental sculpture into a collectible format, retaining the reworked silhouette that defines the Hangzhou installation. The broader merchandise range extends into lifestyle items and draws inspiration from local Hangzhou culture. The apparel offerings include a range of garments, further expanding the thematic elements of the exhibition into wearable art. The collection also features other curated items, such as a tea set and an incense holder, integrating the "KAWS:HOLIDAY" theme into everyday objects and cultural practices. The "KAWS:HOLIDAY" project has previously visited numerous international locations, including Seoul, Taipei, and Mount Fuji, consistently drawing large crowds and significant media attention for its large-scale public art installations and associated merchandise. This Hangzhou debut marks another significant chapter in the ongoing global tour of KAWS's iconic COMPANION figures, highlighting the artist's ability to engage with diverse cultural contexts and urban landscapes.