When Art Meets Influencers: Major Artists Who Blew Up through Collaborations

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Written By Roy Owh

In the age of social media, influencer marketing has become an essential tool for many industries to reach a wider audience. The art world is no exception, as collaborations with influencers have helped many artists gain massive exposure and grow their following. Here are some major artists who have blown up by collaborating with influencers and the details of their partnerships.

1.KAWS

KAWS is a New York-based artist who has gained international recognition for his unique style of pop art. He first gained popularity in the early 2000s by collaborating with streetwear brands such as A Bathing Ape and OriginalFake. In recent years, he has expanded his collaborations to include high-profile influencers such as Virgil Abloh and Travis Scott. KAWS has designed album covers and merchandise for both influencers, which has helped him reach a wider audience.

2. JR

JR is a French artist who is known for his large-scale photographic installations. He gained widespread recognition after winning the TED Prize in 2011. In 2017, JR collaborated with Chinese actress Yao Chen on a project that explored the theme of immigration. The collaboration, which was documented on social media, helped JR gain exposure in China and expand his international audience.

3. Ashley Longshore

Ashley Longshore is a New Orleans-based artist who has gained a large following on social media by creating bold and colorful paintings of famous figures such as Frida Kahlo and Kate Moss. In 2019, she collaborated with pop star Kelly Clarkson on a portrait of the singer. The collaboration helped Longshore gain exposure to a new audience and expand her brand beyond the art world.

4. Kehinde Wiley

Kehinde Wiley is an American artist who is known for his portraits of African-American men. He gained international recognition after painting a portrait of former President Barack Obama in 2018. In 2019, he collaborated with musician Swizz Beatz to create a large-scale sculpture installation in Times Square. The collaboration helped Wiley gain exposure to a wider audience and cement his status as a leading contemporary artist.

5. Derrick Adams

Derrick Adams is a New York-based artist who is known for his vibrant and colorful paintings and sculptures. In 2019, he collaborated with fashion influencer Tiffany Hsu on a project that explored the intersection of fashion and art. The collaboration, which was documented on social media, helped Adams gain exposure to a new audience and expand his brand beyond the art world.

These are just a few examples of how collaborations with influencers can help artists gain exposure and grow their following. By partnering with high-profile individuals in different industries, artists can expand their reach and connect with new audiences.



Sources:

Roy Owh
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