A rare and previously unseen painting by the renowned artist Yayoi Kusama is set to be auctioned at Bonhams in Hong Kong next week. The piece, titled “Infinity,” was completed in 1995 and is estimated to fetch $5,126,693 USD. Measuring 6.5 feet tall, the painting features a constellation of tonal red dots and nets, split into two distinct halves.
Bonhams Highlights Yayoi Kusama’s “Infinity” as Immersive and Compelling Artwork
Bonhams described the work as “immersive and compelling,” highlighting Kusama’s signature obsessional, repetitive, and mesmerizing qualities. The endlessly looping whorls in “Infinity” are a recurring motif in Kusama’s work, reflecting her personal history and inner state. Growing up in an affluent family, Kusama experienced profound visual and auditory hallucinations during her childhood, which have significantly influenced her artistic exploration of themes such as infinity and obliteration.
The Cultural Significance of Yayoi Kusama’s “Infinity” in Art and Identity
The division in “Infinity” mirrors Kusama’s journey from East to West, with the patterns symbolizing cultural differences and the colors acting as a bridge between them. Kusama has always been drawn to the color red, recalling a childhood experience where red flower patterns on a tablecloth seemed to envelop the entire room and her body, evoking a sense of self-obliteration and infinite space.
Bonhams Auction to Feature Yayoi Kusama and Other Notable Modern Art Works
In addition to Kusama’s “Infinity,” the auction will feature notable works such as a “Dialogue” painting by Korean artist Lee Ufan and a piece from Park Seo-bo’s Écriture series, with estimates ranging from $230,701 to $358,869 USD. Bonhams’ Modern and Contemporary Art sale will take place in Hong Kong on May 25, 2024.
Don’t miss the chance to witness this extraordinary piece of art history and other significant works at the upcoming auction.
