Becoming an Artist: Yayoi Kusama | Tate Kids

Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, at 97 years of age, is more vital - and famous - than ever. In just the last decade alone, her otherworldly 'Infinity Mirror Room' immersive experiences and joyful pumpkin sculptures have enraptured art lovers in Buenos Aires, Los Angeles, London, Toronto, New York City, Tel Aviv and, of course, Tokyo. 

This delightfully animated Tate Kids video (created by the iconic London museum of the same name), tells the story of Yayoi growing up in a conservative home, where her artistic ambitions are very much discouraged by her parents. She ultimately makes the decision to courageously leave her home in Japan to move to New York City - and has to work “extra hard” to become noticed, since most artists at that time were men.

As we know, though, that story has a very happy ending!

(Please revisit our tigernoodles story on Yayoi's recent exhibit at Espace Louis Vuitton Osaka.)

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Check it out! Tate Britain and Tate Modern (also in London) both have great ongoing learn and play opportunities on site, with the latter notably hosting its regular UNIQLO Tate Play series - which allows kids to let their imaginations run totally wild.

But you can also visit their website for cool, creative activities you can do at home anywhere. One of our favorites is this colorful make your own wrapping paper project, great for every special occasion throughout the year!