The art world is mourning the loss of the avant-garde Japanese visionary Yayoi Kusama, who has passed away at the age of 97. Known for her immersive environments and signature use of polka dots, mirrors, and organic motifs, Kusama leaves behind a legacy as one of the most commercially successful and globally recognized artists of her generation. As collectors and fans look to revisit her work, finding where to see Yayoi Kusama art exhibitions in the US right now has become a priority for many.
In a poignant tribute, art dealer David Zwirner reflected on her impact:
It’s been one of the great privileges of my professional life to have been able to represent Yayoi Kusama’s extraordinary art for the last fifteen years. The last time Kusama visited New York, a city where she lived for many years, was in 2013. During that visit, she opened the first of many exhibitions in our galleries that had hour-long lines for the chance to experience her work. Her steadfast message of love and peace has now reached millions of admirers around the globe. At the time of her passing, Kusama was, without a doubt, the most famous living artist in the world.
While many of her permanent installations are located internationally, several major American institutions continue to house her celebrated works. If you are planning a visit, be prepared for high demand and limited ticket availability.
Cincinnati, Ohio
The Cincinnati Art Museum is currently hosting All the Eternal Love I Have for the Pumpkins. This mirrored installation is a quintessential example of Kusama’s work, reflecting her childhood experiences in Japan. Tickets are released on a rolling basis, and while the exhibit requires a paid ticket, general museum admission remains free.
New York City
The Guggenheim Museum is featuring Guggenheim Pop: 1960 to Now, which includes the mesmerizing INFINITY MIRRORED ROOM – DANCING LIGHTS THAT FLEW UP TO THE UNIVERSE (2019). Access is included with general admission, though visitors should arrive early to secure a spot in the online queue.
Miami, Florida
The Rubell Museum offers a comprehensive look at her practice, housing three distinct installations: Where the Lights in My Heart Go (2016), INFINITY MIRRORED ROOM – LET’S SURVIVE FOREVER (2017), and an iteration of her historic 1966 work, Narcissus Garden.
Los Angeles, California
The Broad Museum maintains two of her Infinity Rooms in its permanent collection. Infinity Mirrored Room—The Souls of Millions of Light Years Away (2013) requires advance reservations, while Longing for Eternity (2017) is available to museumgoers throughout the day.