ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Yayoi Kusama, Japanese Artist Known for Infinite Dots, Dies at 97

artist · 2026-09-12

Yayoi Kusama, the Japanese artist whose iconic dotted pumpkin sculpture was a highlight at the 2026 India Art Fair, has died at the age of 97. Over a career spanning seven decades, Kusama transformed a deeply personal visual language into an immersive world that audiences could physically enter. Her work, characterized by repetitive polka dots and mirrored infinity rooms, became globally recognized and drew millions of visitors to exhibitions worldwide. The 2026 India Art Fair featured her dotted pumpkin as a major attraction, underscoring her enduring influence in contemporary art. Kusama's death marks the end of an era for an artist who bridged pop art, minimalism, and performance, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire. Further details about her passing and memorial arrangements have not been released.

Key facts

  • Yayoi Kusama died at the age of 97.
  • Her dotted pumpkin was a showstopper at the 2026 India Art Fair.
  • Kusama spent seven decades turning a private visual language into a world others could step into.
  • She was a Japanese artist known for her infinite dots motif.
  • Her career spanned over 70 years.
  • The 2026 India Art Fair took place in India.
  • Kusama's work allowed viewers to physically enter her artistic world.
  • She was 97 years old at the time of her death.

Entities

Artists

Institutions

Locations

  • India

Sources