Come later next month, those who will be watching the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will see KAWS’ iconic Companion character float by as a 40-foot-long balloon. More than 30 people have worked on the inflatable figure over a period of roughly seven months make into reality the concept sketch we showed you back in May. Like many of his recent 3D creations, the giant figure will be covering his eyes shyly. As one of only five living artists (the others being Takashi Murakami, Tim Burton, Jeff Koons, and Tom Otterness) to be bestowed this honor, the NY-based artist will use the event as a coming out party for those who are not yet familiar with his work, which will only serve to fuel his rising popularity.

Photo credit: Andrew Rowat / Wall Street Journal.
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