Product Description
The 2013 30th Anniversary MTV Video Music Awards Moonman Trophy designed by KAWS.
Product Year
2013
Product Materials
Black chrome plated cast pewter with aluminum nameplate
Product Dimensions
13 1/2 x 6 in. (34.29 x 15.24 cm.)
Product Note
KAWS brought his signature skull character style to the iconic Moonman statuette to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the award show. Designed by KAWS, some 60 pieces were produced and awarded to category winners. Six artist proofs were rendered and given to KAWS who archived them, until now. As a symbol of his long-standing friendship with Pharrell (who performed with Daft Punk at the 2013 award show), KAWS has contributed one of the 6 artist proofs to the Just Phriends auction. “If it were not for this unique occasion celebrating Pharrell, I would not have considered selling this work,” he said of the piece.
"When Sarah Andelman invited me to participate in the Joopiter auction, she asked me to think of something that had a connection to my friendship with Pharrell. In 2013, MTV asked me to design the set and trophy for their 30th Anniversary Video Music Awards in Brooklyn. I was thrilled by this opportunity, and it became even more interesting when I learned that Pharrell would make an appearance with Daft Punk on one of the stages that I designed.
This object is important to me because of its connection to the music industry and the memories I have associated with it. I worked closely with my foundry on the production from start to finish so it always felt more like a sculpture than a trophy to me. Only around 60 trophies were produced to be given to the award winners who would then have their names engraved on them for the categories, but MTV made me 6 artist proofs with a special plaque that reads "KAWS MOONMAN". If it were not for this unique occasion celebrating Pharrell, I would not have considered selling this work. I hope it finds a good home with someone who appreciates its significance and possibly gifts it unexpectedly to the best musician friend they know."
-KAWS