Urge 7

This print is one of ten prints that compose the Urge collection. All of the prints in this collection depict Companion surrounded by gloved hands. By 2020, KAWS had become an international artist who had collaborated with celebrities such as Kanye West and Pharrell Williams, as well as notable brands like Nike, Comme des Garcon and Uniqlo. In this collection, KAWS returns to an early source of inspiration, as Companion is one of his oldest cartoon characters whose creation dates back to 1999.

As seen in this print, Companion is easily recognisable due to his inflated skull and crossbones head, crossed out eyes and Mickey Mouse-like body and gloved hands. The cartoon character is often incorporated into KAWS’ artworks alongside other cartoon characters created by the artist, such as Accomplice, Chum and Bendy. As well as creating his own cartoon characters, KAWS often appropriates and adapts various well-known cartoon characters for his works. Notable characters KAWS has incorporated into his artworks include Mickey Mouse, the Smurfs, SpongeBob Square Pants and The Simpsons.