Stedelijk Museum hosts major exhibition of the Japanese queen of polka dots: ''She was a true global superstar''

The Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam has unveiled a comprehensive retrospective dedicated to the late Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. Described as the largest exhibition in the museum's history, the showcase fills the entire new wing with her iconic polka dot patterns, pumpkin sculptures, and large-scale immersive installations. The collection spans seven decades of her artistic career, featuring a blend of historical pieces and more recent works. Some installations are so extensive that they occupy entire rooms, creating an Alice in Wonderland-like experience for visitors. Even the exterior of the building and the surrounding Museumplein are decorated with her art. Following Kusama's passing last month at the age of 97, the exhibition has taken on the significance of a major tribute to her life and global influence. Curator Leontine Coelewij noted that Kusama felt a strong personal connection to Amsterdam, identifying with the city's liberal spirit as early as the 1960s. The exhibition is open to the public until January 17.