What Party 2022, Bronze and Paint, KAWS: Family, Art Gallery of Ontario, AGO, 317 Dundas Street West, Toronto, ON
Excerpt from the plaque:
Since its creation in Lyon, France, in 1894, the Michelin Man, or Bibendum, the Michelin tire company mascot, has undergone several cosmetic changes to reflect the contemporary moment. Similarly, KAWS's CHUM figure, a nod to the cheery, rotend Michelin Man, has changed with the times.
In 1999, KAWS introduced CHUM to the world in two distinct poses: in an energized mid-run stance, and standing proud, hands on the hips. A "chum" is, by definition, a close friend or pal. In its early iterations, CHUM embodied good humour and optimism. In 2020, almost two decades after its debut, KAWS brought CHUM back in a decidedly un-celebratory mood. Here, it stands downcast, shoulders slumped, arms hanging dejectedly by its side. In What Party, CHUM reflects back to us the emotional discord of 2020, a year marred by a global health crisis and socio-economic upheaval.
What Party 2022, Bronze and Paint, KAWS: Family, Art Gallery of Ontario, AGO, 317 Dundas Street West, Toronto, ON
Excerpt from the plaque:
Since its creation in Lyon, France, in 1894, the Michelin Man, or Bibendum, the Michelin tire company mascot, has undergone several cosmetic changes to reflect the contemporary moment. Similarly, KAWS's CHUM figure, a nod to the cheery, rotend Michelin Man, has changed with the times.
In 1999, KAWS introduced CHUM to the world in two distinct poses: in an energized mid-run stance, and standing proud, hands on the hips. A "chum" is, by definition, a close friend or pal. In its early iterations, CHUM embodied good humour and optimism. In 2020, almost two decades after its debut, KAWS brought CHUM back in a decidedly un-celebratory mood. Here, it stands downcast, shoulders slumped, arms hanging dejectedly by its side. In What Party, CHUM reflects back to us the emotional discord of 2020, a year marred by a global health crisis and socio-economic upheaval.