KAWS and the power of comic characters is on display at Albertina Modern

On April 3rd, 2026, the Albertina Modern in Vienna will open its doors to the highly awaited exhibition, KAWS: Art & Comix, which explores the intersection of fine art and popular culture. This extensive exhibition delves into the universal language of comics, cartoons and graphic storytelling, showcasing the iconic works of KAWS alongside a curated selection of contemporary artists.

KAWS: from graffiti artist to global icon

KAWS first emerged in the 1990s as a graffiti artist, overpainting public advertisements with his signature skull-and-crossbones motif. Over the years, his practice has expanded to include larger-than-life figurative sculptures made from materials such as bronze, wood, and inflatable materials. These sculptures include the melancholic and introspective COMPANION and ACCOMPLICE figures. Key pieces such as TIME OFF (2021) and SPACE (2023) will be on display, showcasing the emotional depth and independence of his characters.

Comic characters as leitmotifs

Throughout the exhibition, comic characters serve as central motifs, moving beyond simple pop-culture references to explore gestures, physiognomy, and narrative potential. Visitors will encounter works by Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring, Joyce Pensato and Peter Saul, displayed alongside KAWS’s pieces. This demonstrates how comics and animated storytelling have historically transcended national and social boundaries. Other highlights include Katherine Bernhardt’s Pink Panther paintings, Magdalena Suarez Frimkess’ ceramic figures and Isolde Maria Joham’s manga-inspired canvases.

The art of dialogue and storytelling

Rather than a traditional retrospective, KAWS: Art & Comix places KAWS in conversation with contemporary artists who share a playful yet critical approach to high and low culture. The exhibition emphasises the artistic autonomy of characters, exploring how exaggerated gestures and iconic forms can convey emotion, narrative and social commentary within a visual framework that is accessible to all audiences.

Supported by the Liu Shiming Art Foundation, the exhibition will be on display at Albertina Modern in Vienna from April 3rd to September 27th, 2026, offering visitors an immersive experience celebrating the intersection of comics, contemporary art, and global visual culture.