Trailblazing artist Yayoi Kusama, ‘princess of polka dots,’ dies at 97

Acclaimed Japanese contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama has died at 97, her company said in a statement Thursday.

Kusama died on Aug. 14 at a hospital in Tokyo, the statement said.

Known worldwide for her signature polka dots, repetitive patterns and immersive “Infinity Mirror Rooms,” Kusama had a profound influence on contemporary art. 

“She devoted her entire life — spanning 97 years — to her international career as an avant-garde artist active in various fields, primarily visual art but also including performance art, novels and poetry,” the statement said. “Until the very end, she never put down her paintbrush, continuing to explore eternal love and the soul.”