Released in 2020, TAKE extends KAWS’ exploration of relational dynamics introduced in works such as SHARE, but shifts the emotional register from ambiguity to something far more instinctive: protection. By pairing the BFF figure with a childlike Companion, KAWS constructs a scene that is immediately legible yet psychologically layered—one that resonates with themes of care, possession, and vulnerability.

Table of Contents
Toggle

Introduction
TAKE COMPANIONS, 2020
TAKE (Pink), 2020
TAKE (Black), 2020
TAKE (Blue), 2020

Introduction

The composition presents a standing BFF figure, easily recognizable by its dense, fur-like surface and enlarged, expressive eyes, holding a smaller Companion tightly against its torso. Unlike the passive, dangling figure in SHARE, the child Companion here is actively enclosed, almost shielded. The BFF’s arms wrap firmly around the smaller figure, pulling it inward in a gesture that reads as both protective and possessive. The child Companion, in contrast, appears withdrawn: its head lowered, body slack, gaze directed toward the ground. The emotional asymmetry between the two figures is immediate and striking.

Across the black, blue, and pink colorways, the dynamic remains constant, though the tonal variations subtly affect the reading. The black version intensifies the sense of gravity and control, the blue introduces a more familiar, almost nostalgic pop reference, while the pink softens the composition, heightening its emotional accessibility.

Executed in painted cast vinyl, TAKE combines two distinct surface treatments within a single work. The BFF figure features a sculpted, fur-like texture, while the Companion remains smooth and uniform, reinforcing their conceptual contrast. This juxtaposition of textures is not merely aesthetic, it emphasizes the difference in identity and role between the two figures. The precision of the casting ensures clarity in both the fine detailing of the BFF and the clean simplicity of the Companion. As with other editions from this period, multiple colorways allow for variation while maintaining the structural integrity of the composition.

TAKE emerges at a moment when KAWS is increasingly focused on interpersonal dynamics within his sculptural practice. Following the introduction of paired figures in earlier works, this piece pushes further into narrative territory, presenting a scene that feels almost cinematic in its immediacy. The use of the BFF, originally derived from pop-cultural references such as Sesame Street, adds an additional layer, merging familiarity with a more complex emotional framework.

At its core, TAKE is about control under the guise of care. The BFF’s gesture can be read as protective, shielding the smaller figure from an external threat, but also as possessive, even restrictive. The title reinforces this ambiguity. “Take” suggests action, acquisition, even removal. It raises a quiet question: is the figure being protected, or being taken away?

The child Companion’s posture deepens this tension. Its lowered gaze and passive stance suggest submission rather than comfort, introducing an undercurrent of unease. As in much of KAWS’ work, the emotional clarity of the scene is counterbalanced by its conceptual ambiguity. The figures are readable, but their relationship remains unresolved.

TAKE has become one of the most recognizable relational compositions in KAWS’ editioned output. Its strong narrative presence and clear emotional tension have contributed to its broad appeal among collectors. More importantly, the work signals a continued expansion of KAWS’ sculptural language. By introducing increasingly complex interactions between figures, he moves beyond isolated emotional states toward more nuanced explorations of human relationships. If SHARE introduces connection, TAKE complicates it—revealing that proximity, care, and control are often inseparable.

TAKE COMPANIONS, 2020

TAKE (Black/Blue/Pink)

The complete set of three works
Medium: Painted cast vinyl
Year: 2020
Dimensions: 34x15x13 cm (13-3/8 x 5-7/8 x 5-1/8 inches)
Edition: Open edition
Produced by Medicom Toy, Tokyo

Stamped signature, title, date and manufacturer’s mark to the underside
‘KAWS..20 Take Medicom Toy China’

Auction Results

SBI Art Auction: 14 September 2024
Estimated: JPY 200,000 – 300,000
JPY 230,000 / USD 1,635

KAWS
KAWS TAKE OPEN EDITION (Pink, Blue, Black), 2020
Vinyl, multiple with original case, 3 works

SBI Art Auction: 13 April 2024
Estimated: JPY 200,000 – 300,000
JPY414,000 / USD 2,700

KAWS
KAWS TAKE OPEN EDITION (Pink, Blue, Black), 2020
Vinyl, multiple with original case, 3 works

Tate Ward Auctions: 20 March 2024
Estimated: GBP 1,000 – 1,500
GBP 1,375 / USD 1,750

KAWS (American 1974-)
‘Take (Pink, Blue & Black)‘, 2020
A set of three cast vinyl figures
All stamped to the underside of the feet
Produced by Medicom Toy, Japan

SBI Art Auction: 29 January 2022
Estimated: JPY 150,000 – 250,000
JPY 575,000 / USD 4,990
AUCTION RECORD FOR A COMPLETE SET OF TAKE

KAWS
KAWS TAKE OPEN EDITION (Pink, Blue, Black), 2020
Vinyl, multiple with original case, 3 works

Heritage Auctions: 7 October 2020
USD 3,875

KAWS (b. 1974)
Take (set of 3), 2020
Painted cast vinyl
Open Edition
Each stamped to the underside of the feet
Produced by Medicom Toy, Tokyo

TAKE (Pink), 2020

TAKE (Pink)

The complete set of three works
Medium: Painted cast vinyl
Year: 2020
Dimensions: 34x15x13 cm (13-3/8 x 5-7/8 x 5-1/8 inches)
Edition: Open edition
Produced by Medicom Toy, Tokyo

Stamped signature, title, date and manufacturer’s mark to the underside
‘KAWS..20 Take Medicom Toy China’

Auction Results

Tate Ward Auctions: 30 October 2025
Estimated: GBP 300 – 500
GBP 500 / USD 670

KAWS (American 1974-)
‘Take (Pink)’, 2020
Painted cast vinyl
From an open edition
Stamped on the underside of the feet
Produced by Medicom Toy

TAKE (Black), 2020

TAKE (Black)

The complete set of three works
Medium: Painted cast vinyl
Year: 2020
Dimensions: 34x15x13 cm (13-3/8 x 5-7/8 x 5-1/8 inches)
Edition: Open edition
Produced by Medicom Toy, Tokyo

Stamped signature, title, date and manufacturer’s mark to the underside
‘KAWS..20 Take Medicom Toy China’

Auction Results

Heritage Auctions: 12 December 2025
USD 525

KAWS (b. 1974)
Take (Black), 2020
Painted cast vinyl
Stamped on underside of feet
Produced by Medicom Toy, Tokyo

TAKE (Blue), 2020

TAKE (Blue)

The complete set of three works
Medium: Painted cast vinyl
Year: 2020
Dimensions: 34x15x13 cm (13-3/8 x 5-7/8 x 5-1/8 inches)
Edition: Open edition
Produced by Medicom Toy, Tokyo

Stamped signature, title, date and manufacturer’s mark to the underside
‘KAWS..20 Take Medicom Toy China’