Yayoi Kusama Dead at 97: Inside the Trauma and Hallucinations That Inspired Her Famous Polka Dots

Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama turned the dots, lights and repeating patterns she experienced in childhood hallucinations into globally recognised paintings, pumpkins and Infinity Rooms. (Credit: rojan gurung/Pexels)

Yayoi Kusama, the Japanese artist who transformed childhood hallucinations and personal trauma into internationally recognised polka-dot artworks, has died aged 97.

Kusama died at a Tokyo hospital on 14 August, according to an announcement published by her studio on Thursday. A cause of death was not disclosed. Her studio said she continued painting until her final days.