Yayoi Kusama: From Here to Infinity!

K-Gr 3—This picture book biography is an ode to the life and work of noted pop artist Yayoi Kusama. Born in Japan in 1929, Kusama grew up under the strict eye of her mother but chafed at the traditional expectations that were laid at her feet and desired instead to pursue art. After an unsatisfactory experience at a Japanese art school, Kusama decamped to New York City to use painting and sculpture to explore the visions and dreams she had experienced since childhood. She eventually found success with her now-famous polka dots and studies of the notion of infinity. This is a gentle portrayal of a beloved artist and the author glosses over the more difficult aspects of her life, instead emphasizing her artwork and the artist's view of the world. Weinstein's illustrations incorporate both a minimalist aesthetic as well as Kusama's cherished polka dots, which appear in every spread, making vibrant and interesting paintings that complement the somewhat dreamy, ethereal story. Photographs of the artist and some of her more famous pieces are included, as well as a brief author's note that shares a bit more detail about her current life. Creamy pages covered in colorful, almost-geometric illustrations make for a beautifully designed, spare narrative of a popular and influential contemporary artist that is just begging to be shared with a wide audience.