KAWS Brings a Giant Robot COMPANION to Hangzhou’s West Lake

Image Via AllRightsReserved

The latest KAWS:HOLIDAY installation introduces a 30-metre osmanthus-inspired sculpture alongside an exclusive Hangzhou collection.

KAWS and AllRightsReserved have brought the latest chapter of KAWS:HOLIDAY to Hangzhou, China, unveiling a new robot-inspired COMPANION sculpture beside the city’s iconic West Lake. Created in partnership with WESTLAKE 66, the monumental installation features a 30-metre-long figure reclining at “Orioles Singing in the Willows,” one of the renowned scenic areas surrounding the UNESCO-listed West Lake.

The sculpture presents a futuristic reinterpretation of KAWS’ familiar COMPANION character. Its soft yellow color draws inspiration from osmanthus, Hangzhou’s city flower, while the robot-like construction reflects the city’s growing connection to digital technology, innovation and robotics. Positioned lying on the grass and looking toward the sky, the figure also references the traditional Chinese practice of appreciating the moon beside the lake during Mid-Autumn season.

Alongside the large-scale installation, KAWS and AllRightsReserved have developed an exclusive collection inspired by the new robot COMPANION. The centerpiece is a roughly 10-inch vinyl figure available in gloss yellow and matte black, presented in specially designed packaging featuring embossed details and an NFC authenticity chip. The collectible translates the larger sculpture’s futuristic design into a smaller display piece.

The accompanying range also extends into apparel, homeware and objects inspired by local culture. The collection includes a two-tone hoodie, a split-color T-shirt and a ceramic mug, while more Hangzhou-specific pieces include a bronze incense holder and a ceramic-and-wood tea set. The tea set incorporates a gaiwan, cups and a carved wooden tray, connecting the collection to the longstanding tradition of Chinese tea culture.

The Hangzhou installation continues the ongoing KAWS:HOLIDAY series, which AllRightsReserved first launched in 2018. Since then, the project has brought large-scale COMPANION sculptures to various cities and landmarks around the world, with each installation adapted to its surrounding cultural environment. The Hangzhou edition similarly combines KAWS’ contemporary character design with the city’s traditional landscape and cultural identity.

Image Via AllRightsReserved

Image Via AllRightsReserved

Image Via AllRightsReserved

Image Via AllRightsReserved

Image Via AllRightsReserved

Image Via AllRightsReserved

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