Art snobs and tech nerds alike are for once suspending their signature skepticism, waiting patiently in lines for up to three hours to experience Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama’s latest galactic spectacle of an exhibition at New York City’s prestigious David Zwirner Gallery. Proving that you’re never too old to be a social media sensation, the richly aesthetic Kusama, now in her 80’s, has created the ultimate in hashtaggable (is that an adjective now?) and sharable art.

With her psychedelic, polka dot jellyfish-like lanterns that illuminate the vibrant space, to a self-reflection-inducing “Infinity Mirror Room” that doubles as a perfect backdrop for selfie-advocating tourists, Kusama’s current solo show, “I Who Have Arrived In Heaven,” is a high-tech, visually stimulating, immersive installation attracting thousands of social media savvy visitors a day. Our friend, NY-based photographer Switttch, braved crowds for a close-up view at the brightest star in the artworld’s cosmos. Check out his photos, and if you’re in New York, stop by David Zwirner with your telescope.

Artist portrait by David Zwirner Gallery
Words by Jane Helpern