Krazy for KAWS: A Peek at Carol Tan's Collection!

KAWS: HOLIDAY has recently made its way to The Float @ Marina Bay, Singapore, and attracted the likes of art enthusiasts and collectors alike. Carol Tan, an avid KAWS collector was amongst the swarm of art lovers at The Float to not only admire the installation but also meet the artist; Brian Donnelly. 

This week, The Artling spoke with Carol Tan about her her impressive KAWS collection, her collecting journey, and her love for art.
 

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You have an incredible collection of KAWS figurines. How did the collection come about and when did you start collecting?

I bought my 1st KAWs figurine about 5 years ago. Unknowingly, it grew on me and I ended up with an extensive collection.

What specifically draws you to KAWS? 

I like how KAWs figurines have a fun and cartoonish look, while also portraying life-like feelings such as confidence, loneliness or sadness. 
 

What process do you go through before deciding on a new addition to your collection? Is there a selection process? Is there a specific way your collection is displayed?

It’s challenging to purchase KAWS items so I always attempt to get any piece if possible. I have a display shelf specially built for KAWS items in a corner of my living room. Unfortunately, the space is no longer sufficient so I have figurines displayed at other parts of the house too.
 

Do you collect other artworks and if so, what types of other pieces are you drawn to?

My main collection would be KAWS but I have collections of Bearbricks at home as well. A row of Bearbrick 1000% is displayed along my corridor to brighten up the area as my house in designed in monochrome. I also have a number of Bearbrick 400% series from Royal Selangor.
 

Do you have a favourite piece or series in your collection? If you could only pick one item from your collection to keep forever, which would it be? 

Initially, my favourite collection was the KAWs Space series. I actually brought that and a companion figurine to the KAWs event in Singapore in hopes of getting an autograph from Brian. I was elated when he signed both and did a drawing on the companion. I would have to say both are now my favourites.
 

There have been several iconic KAWS collaborations. Is there a KAWS collaboration you would love to see?

It would be great if KAWs’ design can be incorporated into Home and Living items such as furniture.

Is there an upcoming drop you are excited about?

KAWs drops are usually announced nearing the release date. The latest one was KAWs “Seeing”. It was a sought after piece. Unfortunately, I wasn't selected during the draw.
 

Out of all the KAWS installations you have seen, which one has been your favourite and the most memorable?

I flew to HK in 2019 to visit the KAWs “Along The Way” exhibition. Out of the 37 displays, my favourite would be the sitting Dissected Companion for its pop colour and amount of details.

With the art world increasingly embracing street art and pop culture, where do you see the art collecting scene heading?

I would imagine demands going up with more collaborations happening across industries.
 

What advice would you give to new designer toys collectors? 

Start by purchasing an art piece that you truly adore. 

Who are your main influences? Are there any top collectors on Instagram we should follow?

Personally, I enjoy browsing the feeds of @kaws, @danielarsham, @takashipom and @banksy.
 

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For more of Carol Tan's incredible KAWS collection, follow her at @caroltan_tay. Looking to start collecting? Browse our collection of Contemporary Pop Sculptures here!