Kaws is no stranger to Japan. The Brooklyn-based artist, whose real name is Brian Donnelly, has regular collaborations with Uniqlo. In 2019, he even staged an art installation at the foot of Mt Fuji featuring a larger-than-life version of his signature character, Companion. Now the artist has returned to Tokyo for his first large-scale solo exhibition titled Kaws Tokyo First, held at the Mori Art Center Gallery in Roppongi.
Aside from the 150 artworks on display, one of the biggest draws of the exhibition is the release of special merchandise. Kaws’ Uniqlo tote bag and T-shirts are now available in stores and online. Meanwhile, the exhibition’s Twitter account has revealed more Kaws merchandise including figurines, puzzles and collabs with Japanese brands Sacai and Porter.
You can purchase some of these items online. However, most of them are exclusive to the on-site exhibition gift shop. Here’s a sneak peek of what you’ll find.
【グッズ情報】明日よりFire-King 2商品の販売を再開いたします。※各商品の販売数には限りがございます。
— KAWS TOKYO FIRST (@kawstokyofirst) August 13, 2021
また、ひよ子、クリアファイル、クリアファイル2枚セット、ポストカード、缶バッジの各商品につきまして、増産に伴い明日より購入制限を各4個までに変更いたします。#kawstokyofirst #fireking pic.twitter.com/bPdHpZLemV
Released just last week, the latest collaboration to hit the shelves are these mugs and cups from renowned glassware maker Fire-King. These are available only at the exhibition's on-site gift shop.
【お知らせ】
— KAWS TOKYO FIRST (@kawstokyofirst) July 26, 2021
8/1(日)より、PORTERとコラボレーションした3アイテムを発売いたします。※各販売数量には限りがございます。予定数終了の場合には、ご了承ください。※本展会場付設グッズショップ限定です。※個別のお問い合わせは受けておりません。https://t.co/fEs7WgWwNa#kaws #kawstokyofirst pic.twitter.com/cYJbx05lAg
You’ll find a capsule collection of three Porter accessories at the physical store. There’s a wallet, tote bag and small case featuring a subtle stitched-on Kaws pattern.
【お知らせ】
— KAWS TOKYO FIRST (@kawstokyofirst) July 26, 2021
8/1(日)より、sacaiより3アイテムを発売いたします。※各販売数量には限りがございます。予定数終了の場合には、ご了承ください。※ KAWS TOKYO FIRST会場付設グッズショップ限定となります。※個別のお問い合わせは受けておりません。https://t.co/fEs7WgWwNa#kaws #kawstokyofirst pic.twitter.com/vnX2c4dF2o
One of the most anticipated collabs from the exhibition is with Sacai, which offers two T-shirts and a tote bag. These can only be purchased at the physical store at the exhibition.
Hiyoko, the popular Japanese confectionery shaped like a baby chick, has also teamed up with Kaws for a special offering featuring Kaws’ signature crossed out eyes. A box of eight retails for ¥2,160 and it’s available at the exhibition shop as well as online.
For the full lineup of Kaws Tokyo First goods, visit the website.
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