Yayoi Kusama was born in Matsumoto, Japan, in 1929. Kusama is a contemporary and self-defined "obsessional artist," known for her excessive use of repeated patterns. Her work has been shown in exhibits and stores around the globe. Kusama has avidly spoke out on her struggles with mental health. She has always made it a mission to have important messages behind each piece. Kusama has displayed themes of disassembling stereotypes around identity, sexuality and the nude body. In 1977, she moved into a mental hospital and continued to produce art. Kusama has always been an international artist that breaks down borders through her meaningful and striking art.