Classic KAWS for Beginners

They’re the ultimate symbol of modern culture, but if you aren’t up on what’s what, KAWS vinyl figures can be hard to buy. Whether you’re brightening up your office or looking for a statement piece for your bedroom or lounge, a KAWS figure can be the missing piece in styling your space – if you get the ‘right’ one. 

So if you’ve been wanting to pick up a KAWS figure but haven’t known what to get – we got you. Check out our list of some classic KAWS figures for those starting out.

KAWS BFF Open Edition Vinyl Figure Pink

The BFF figure is one of KAWS’ most popular, and it’s easy to see why. The BFF debuted back in 2016 in Bangkok, Thailand with an 8 metre tall BFF. The BFF (which obvs is an acronym for Best Friends Forever) takes us back to childhood – its plush-like form reminds us of the days when toys and friendships were abundant. 

Anyway, the BFF is a classic, and this beautiful pink colourway stands out amongst other KAWS figures – most of which come in signature black, grey, or brown tones. And while you probably don’t have the bank for the 8m tall blue BFF, you can cop this 34cm tall pink one for a fraction of the price.

KAWS Holiday Japan Vinyl Figure Black

Ah, my first KAWS figure. The mems. 

Anyway, after releasing his final collaborative apparel collection with Uniqlo’s UT line in June of 2019, KAWS returned just over one month later for the Japan instalment of his KAWS Holiday series. The event and collection took to the theme of Mt. Fuji, staging campsites in Japan and releasing an array of Holiday and Mt. Fuji inspired collectibles. Released as a part of the event was the latest instalment of KAWS Vinyl figures depicting a companion laying on the ground in what looks to be a very relaxing position.

This is also a great option if you want something for a shelf where you don’t have a lot of height, or you just want to permeate relaxing vibes through a space.

KAWS What Party Vinyl Figure Yellow

Shortly after releasing his much hyped KAWS Holiday Space Figures, the artist returned with a new figure titled KAWS What Party. The figure is a return of the fan-favourite Chum character, which originally debuted in 2002, and came in five colours: black, white, orange, pink, and yellow. 

So many reasons to cop this one – the yellow is big energy, and it’s fun to say ‘Chum’. The character also looks a bit sad, so maybe you can cheer them up by giving them pride of place in your living room. 

KAWS Companion 2020 Vinyl Figure Brown

This is a must cop as a timestamp for the craziest period most of us will ever experience in our lives – the year that was (or wasn’t, if you were stuck inside like I was) 2020. KAWS released the KAWS Companion 2020 Figure on December 17th, 2020, to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the KAWS Companion. Think back to December 2020 and tell me you didn’t feel exactly like this Companion figure looks?! 

The KAWS Companion 2020 Vinyl Figure measures approximately 43cm long.

KAWS Holiday Changbai Mountain Vinyl Figure Brown

That new-new! KAWS first exhibition of 2022 is his first ever release at the Chinese Changbai Mountains. This KAWS: Holiday Changbai Mountain Figure comes in a brown colourway, measures 8.5 inches tall and features a Companion figure sitting down holding a smaller Companion figure leaning back in its lap. 

What does this signify to you? Is it the nurturing relationship between a parent and child? Does it remind you of Scottie and Michael during 1997’s ‘Flu Game’? Or is it me at the park asking my labrador to not lie down in the mud? Either way, it’s a great piece.

KAWS Companion Open Edition Vinyl Figure Blush

Released to commemorate KAWS’ exhibition in Shanghai at the Yuz Museum back in 2017, the Companion Open Edition in Blush is a new twist on a classic. Just months after the release of 6 different Open Edition Companions, KAWS dropped two Blush Companions of the same size (11 inches) on KAWSONE. As is typical with all KAWS collectibles, these figures sold out quickly. This is a cop if you like to do things differently – you might be rocking with a red theme already (how intense of you), or you might just love the feelings this pink and red beauty conjures up.

Thinking about hanging a skateboard deck on your wall? Check out some of our favourites in this handy guide.