The renowned artist, who shows his distinctive work in unexpected places to reach everyone, brings a fresh perspective to Absolut
Absolut Vodka has unveiled an Artist Edition collaboration with world-leading contemporary artist KAWS, reimagining its iconic apothecary-shaped bottle through KAWS’ unmistakable visual language.
Building on a rich history of groundbreaking collaborations, Absolut Vodka’s partnership with one of today’s most influential artists marks a new era in its creative journey. It reflects Absolut’s continued ambition to open minds and spark fresh perspectives through partnerships spanning art, fashion, music and culture.
Inspired by a specially commissioned painting by KAWS, the ABSOLUT KAWS Artist Edition bottle challenges the familiar, championing curiosity through imagination. Featuring the artist’s famed “XX” motif and CHUM character on the front, and an image of the original painting on the back, the bottle transforms an everyday object into something unexpected – inviting people to view it from their own perspective.
The Brooklyn-based artist – whose real name is Brian Donnelly – is a natural collaborator for Absolut Vodka, which has always believed that art should be open, joyful and for everyone. His work seamlessly bridges the gap between fine art and popular culture, resonating with audiences far beyond the traditional art scene. Growing up in New Jersey, Donnelly spent his teenage years tagging trains and billboards downtown with his now-famous KAWS tag. Through his instantly recognisable characters, KAWS breaks barriers and makes his thought-provoking work accessible to all.
The ABSOLUT KAWS Artist Edition bottle (40% ABV) will be available for a limited time from 1 October 2026 across more than 30 markets, including the UK, Germany, Spain, Mexico, China, Italy, New Zealand, Poland and Korea. Please visit https://www.absolut.com/en/products/absolut-kaws for more information on price and availability.
Liam Murphy, Marketing Director, Pernod Ricard UK, comments: “Absolut has spent decades shaping culture, not just following it. The KAWS collaboration is the latest example of how we’re keeping the brand fresh, relevant and distinctive for a new generation of consumers. Combined with continued investment in our core range, innovation and iconic cocktail occasions, our yearly limited-edition artist collaborations help Absolut strengthen its position as the UK’s leading premium vodka brand.”
Absolut KAWS will be available in all major UK grocers, impulse and Amazon from 1st October 2026. RRP £23 (70cl), £32 (1L).
Absolut, since its early collaborations with artists such as Andy Warhol more than forty years ago, has always challenged the familiar, opening minds to new perspectives. In addition to its artist collaborations (more than 550 artists have contributed over 850 artworks inspired by the distinctive Absolut Vodka bottle since the 1980s), Absolut has also more recently partnered with household brands and popular cultural events, including Heinz, Tabasco and Tomorrowland.
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