Well known for her use of dense patterns of polka dots and nets, as well as her intense, large-scale environments, Japanese multimedia artist Yayoi Kusama’s widely varied works include painting, drawing, sculpture, film, performance and immersive installation. Born in Japan in 1929, Kusama came to the United States in 1957 and quickly found herself at the epicenter of the New York avant-garde. After achieving fame through groundbreaking exhibitions and art “happenings,” she returned to her native country in 1973 and is now one of Japan’s most prominent contemporary artists. This retrospective features works spanning Kusama’s career.

As part of the retrospective, Kusama’s Fireflies on the Water, which takes place within a mirrored installation, is being shown in the Museum’s Lobby Gallery. Time Stamped Tickets are required to view Fireflies on the Water and can only be reserved on the day of your visit at the admission desk. We were told that these tickets are usually “Sold Out” within the first 2 hours of daily operation, so you’d better get there early (i.e. when the museum opens) if you want to see it! There was also a line outside the museum and up the block, which we were able to usurp thanks to our Corporate Membership! Happiness!

Note that photography is not permitted in the galleries, so the two photos below were the only ones I was able to snap. Trust me though, much like the late great Louise Bourgeois, Kusama’s work is amazingly playful and diverse.

Kusama’s Signature Polka Dot Beach Balls installation Above The Whitney Museum Restaurant

The Yayoi Kusama Retrospective Runs Through September 30th, 2012. Fireflies on the Water Runs Through October 28, 2012. The Whitney Museum of American Art is located at 945 Madison Avenue at 75th Street, New York, NY 10021. For General Information Phone (212)570-3600.