London’s Serpentine Galleries has revealed a stunning new public sculpture by renowned Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, famous for her captivating “Infinity Mirror Rooms” that have drawn crowds worldwide.
The bronze sculpture, titled Pumpkin, is an impressive 19.5 feet tall with an 18-foot diameter, standing proudly next to the Round Pond in Kensington Gardens. Painted in Kusama’s signature yellow with black polka dots, this piece is a striking addition to her body of work.
Kusama is celebrated for her immersive installations, intricate paintings, and large-scale sculptures. Pumpkins, known as kabocha in her native Japan, have been a recurring motif in her art since 1946. This latest sculpture is her tallest pumpkin creation to date.
“I am sending to London with love my giant pumpkin,” Kusama shared. “Since my childhood, pumpkins have been a great comfort to me; they are such tender things to touch, so appealing in color and form. They are humble and amusing at the same time and speak to me of the joy of living.”
Hans Ulrich Obrist, the Serpentine’s artistic director, expressed his excitement, calling it an “honor” to present Kusama’s work. “Her signature pumpkins have become a landmark motif for the artist, and this project is a reunion for Kusama and Serpentine.”
Kusama’s connection with the Serpentine dates back to her first UK retrospective at the gallery in 2000, which explored her fascinations with polka dots, nets, food, and sex. This new sculpture marks a significant and joyous return.
