Contemporary artist KAWS, best known for his distinctive style that reimagines and subverts pop culture, has been announced as UNIQLO’s first Artist in Residence.
This new role is part of the brand’s Art For All philosophy, where art isn’t limited to museums but becomes part of everyday life. KAWS will shape global art events at UNIQLO flagship stores and with the brand’s museum partners, bridging high culture with accessible style.
The collaboration isn’t just about exhibitions. KAWS will also have a hand in developing future LifeWear products. While UNIQLO has long worked with artists, designers, and cultural icons, this marks the first time the brand has created a dedicated Artist in Residence programme.
The partnership will see KAWS introduce new collaborators, propose fresh creative directions, and even play a part in future UT Grand Prix competitions, which celebrate graphic T-shirt design worldwide.
Fashion and art lovers can expect the first KAWS x UNIQLO Artist in Residence collection in Fall/Winter 2025. Given the success of previous KAWS x UNIQLO launches, this upcoming drop will likely generate plenty of anticipation among collectors and fans alike.
“I am thrilled to be taking this next step with my longtime partner UNIQLO to become the brand’s first Artist In Residence. In this role, I hope to tap into the art community and global creatives to curate the next generation of UNIQLO collaborator. I am looking forward to working on exciting new kinds of LifeWear.”
KAWS
A Look Back at UNIQLO × KAWS Collaborations
UNIQLO and KAWS have a long history of creative partnerships. Here’s a quick look back:
| Year | Season | Collection |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | Spring/Summer | UT KAWS |
| 2017 | Spring/Summer | KAWS × PEANUTS |
| 2018 | Spring/Summer | KAWS × SESAME STREET |
| 2019 | Spring/Summer | KAWS:SUMMER |
| 2021 | Spring/Summer | KAWS TOKYO FIRST |
| 2023 | Fall/Winter | UT KAWS (KAWS art book) |
| 2024 | Fall/Winter | KAWS + Warhol |