KAWS to launch 42-meter Companion hot air balloon over cities worldwide

American artist Brian Donnelly, known as KAWS, has introduced a new stage of his "KAWS: Holiday" initiative: a 42-meter-tall hot air balloon resembling his Companion character. This balloon is set to tour prominent cities in Australia, China, Turkey, and Spain, with each stop lasting approximately one month, commencing in late 2021. Tickets for pairs or trios will be available for purchase, though pricing details remain undisclosed, and buyers can use cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin. Donnelly characterized the balloon as "unexpected in the sky," providing a safe avenue to engage with art during pandemic limitations. This venture, in collaboration with Hong Kong's AllRightsReserved studio, follows earlier versions that included augmented reality Companions and a figure sent into the stratosphere.