Today Japanese artist and polka dot queen Yayoi Kusama turns 85. Over the past 60 years of creating work, the artist has skyrocketed to fame, showing works in international art fairs, museums, and galleries. Last Novemeber, she opened a blockbuster show of paintings and installations at David Zwirner gallery called "I Who Have Arrived in Heaven" that had lines around around the block to get into her two Infinity Rooms.
The mythology that has accompanied Kusama's ascent to fame and recognition is peppered with both trauma and triumph. From her abusive mother to her (almost unknown) lovers, Kusama's life continues to unfold even now. Celebrate the colorful artist's birthday with 20 Things You Didn't Know About Yayoi Kusama.
RELATED: The Most Important Artists of 2013
RELATED: Watch Yayoi Kusama Talk About Her New Exhibition "I Who Have Arrived in Heaven"