KAWS the artist is known for works of pop art fantasy, repeatedly using recognizable motifs and characters for 2D and 3D creations. His work as a graffiti artist in New York has evolved to encompass sculptures, acrylic paintings, and screen prints. Yet for all of KAWS’ art world credentials and gallery exhibitions, he hasn’t been above producing commercial goods, from small toys, to skateboards, and sneakers.
With the release of the Uniqlo KAWS x Peanuts 2017 Collection, he is back at it with a hip reimagining of the famous Charles M. Schulz Peanuts characters in a line of affordable clothing and plush toys for the world-renowned Japanese brand. The collaboration is perfectly matched, for as much of an affinity that the Japanese have for animation and pop culture references, so too, does KAWS.
Two plush Snoopy toys in both large and small sizes are a fitting starting point, tweaked into KAWS’ signature monochromatic look with a pair of “X”‘s for eyes. The rest of the collection is a black and white homage to Peanuts’ most beloved dog. Unisex graphic print t-shirts feature a large open-mouthed Snoopy wearing a “Joe KAWS” shirt, or a smaller more innocuous Snoopy peaking out of a pocket. Two different sweatshirt designs in two different colors, black or white, feature a large skateboarding Snoopy or another smaller Snoopy on the chest.
The lovable cartoon character shows up again in a pair of hoodie options for women and a set of t-shirts and sweatshirts for kids.