The Drawing Center in New York City has unveiled an extraordinary exhibition curated by contemporary art sensation KAWS. Titled The Way I See It, this monumental show features over 350 artworks, handpicked from KAWS’s personal collection of more than 3,000 works on paper. It offers an eclectic mix of pieces that span across centuries, highlighting the diversity and personal taste of one of the most influential figures in today’s art world. This exhibition also underscores The Drawing Center’s unique focus on celebrating drawing as an essential medium, both historically and in contemporary practice.
KAWS’s curation brings together a fascinating mix of artistic genres, drawing from the 20th and 21st centuries. The exhibition covers an expansive range of work, from comics and commercial illustrations to pieces pulled from graffiti black books, offering an intimate look into the creative process of artists across different disciplines. Notable works include pieces by Abstract Expressionist Willem de Kooning, the iconic comic artist R. Crumb, Pop Art pioneer Peter Saul, and celebrated sculptor H.C. Westermann. The exhibit also shines a spotlight on the legendary Pablo Picasso, whose work on paper continues to inspire and influence generations of artists.
KAWS doesn’t stop with the established icons of modern art. His collection also features pieces from his graffiti peers, giving visitors a glimpse into the world that shaped his own artistic journey. Artists such as Todd James, FUTURA 2000, DONDI, SERVE, and DAZE are all represented, bridging the gap between traditional fine art and the raw, energetic spirit of street culture. This blend of the traditional and contemporary speaks to KAWS’s unique vision and highlights his ability to see art through a multifaceted lens.
“For KAWS, this collection functions as a personal reference library—a way to study the progression of an artist’s style, to think abstractly about the marks of a drawing, and to remind himself that there’s more than one way of making art,” explains The Drawing Center. KAWS has described living with other artists’ work as “energy, food,” emphasizing the profound impact these works have had on his own creative development.
Visitors to The Way I See It are offered a rare opportunity to experience art through KAWS’s eyes—each piece a reflection of his deep appreciation for the diverse expressions of creativity. Whether you’re a fan of graffiti or fine art, this exhibition is a testament to the endless possibilities of drawing as a medium and the enduring influence of artistic collaboration across time.
The Way I See It is on view at The Drawing Center until January 19, 2025. Don’t miss the chance to explore this curated collection of iconic and inspiring artworks.
This post was originally published on this site be sure to check out more of their content.
