KAWS’ collaboration with Fortnite kicked off in 2021 with the release of his Skeleton skin, expanded into an in-game recreation of his NEW FICTION exhibition in early 2022, and returned later that year with the tongue-in-cheek KAWSPEELY skin. Across these drops, Fortnite became both a gaming platform and a digital art space, introducing KAWS’ work to a massive global player base.

KAWS Skeleton (2021)
Debuting during Fortnitemares in October 2021, KAWS Skeleton introduced the signature skull head on a full skeleton suit with selectable styles in green, pink, bone, and orange. The skin quickly became a recurring Item Shop favorite and signaled Fortnite’s first team-up with a contemporary artist at this scale. (2, 6)

NEW FICTION Creative Hub (2022)
In January 2022, Fortnite featured a Creative Hub recreating the Serpentine North Gallery show, complete with a public island code so players could explore the KAWS installation beyond the real-world run. The activation bridged physical, AR, and in-game viewing, reflecting the project’s cross-platform design. (3, 4, 5)

KAWSPEELY (2022)
On July 2, 2022, KAWS returned with KAWSPEELY, a X-eyed spin on Fortnite’s banana character, arriving with the Companion back bling in multiple styles, a Far From Home glider, and the Ripe On Time wrap, plus a Skeleton shop return. It was a playful follow-up that reinforced the set as both art collectible and pop gaming moment. (1, 7)

Why It Matters
The partnership showed how KAWS’ visual language adapts to interactive spaces, not just static products or walls, and how a game can host fine art experiences at massive scale. It broadened audience reach while keeping the work’s tone intact.