KAWS Companion
Overview
KAWS Companion is the most iconic and foundational character in the work of artist Brian Donnelly (KAWS), widely recognized as the cornerstone of contemporary designer toys and urban vinyl culture. First introduced in 1999 as an 8-inch vinyl figure produced by Bounty Hunter in Japan, Companion draws inspiration from Mickey Mouse but subverts it with a melancholic expression, crossed-out eyes (XX motif), gloved hands often covering the face in despair or contemplation, and a signature skull-and-crossbones influence. The gray, plush-like body with Mickey-style ears and shorts creates a deceptively cute yet unsettling aesthetic—blending nostalgia, street art, and fine art commentary on consumerism, emotion, and pop culture.
Creator & Brand
Creator: KAWS (Brian Donnelly)
Brian Donnelly, known as KAWS, began as a graffiti artist in the 1990s. He created Companion in 1999 during a trip to Japan. His style—bold lines, cartoon subversion, and emotional depth—has made Companion a recurring motif across paintings, sculptures, prints, and merchandise.
- •Graffiti origins & billboard subversions
- •Master of pop culture subversion & emotional storytelling
- •Companion as flagship character since 1999
Brand: OriginalFake / KAWS Studio
KAWS launched OriginalFake in 2006 as his primary brand. Partnering with Medicom Toy, OriginalFake (and later KAWS Studio) produces limited drops, open editions, and high-end sculptures.
- •OriginalFake (2006–present) as flagship brand
- •Medicom Toy primary production partner for vinyl
- •Direct-to-consumer drops via kawsone.com & select galleries
Series & Editions
Blind Box Series
Format
- Typically 8-inch or larger vinyls
- Not a traditional blind box series
Themes
Large Scale & Art
KAWS is famous for monumental sculptures.
Market Impact
Companion represents the ultimate crossover from street art to blue-chip fine art. Its scarcity model and massive demand create instant sell-outs and high resale premiums.
Global Reach
Why It's Successful
- ✓Ultimate crossover: Street art to blue-chip fine art
- ✓Emotional resonance & instant recognizability (XX eyes trademark)
- ✓Scarcity model + massive demand create instant sell-outs
- ✓Cultural ubiquity: Parades, music videos, fashion collabs
- ✓Strong investment track record
Collecting Guide
Retail Pricing
Single Blind Box
N/A (Typically larger vinyls)
Full Set (12)
Open Editions: $100–$300; Limited: $200–$1,000+
Secondary Market
Early 1999–2000s pieces and Dissected series fetch 5–100x original prices. Recent open editions hold value well.
Collecting Strategy
Where to Buy
Official Channels
- KAWS official website (kawsone.com)
- Medicom Toy select releases
- Gallery partners (Maddox Gallery, Perrotin)
Secondary Platforms
- eBay
- StockX
- Christie’s
- Sotheby’s
- Heritage Auctions
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