KAWS' tondo paintings often feature close-ups of the faces of his iconic characters, such as KAWSBob, set within the round format that accentuates their cartoonish features. They were made in 20", 40", 60", 72", 84", and 90" formats.
The circular edges of the picture plane harmonize with the exaggerated, stylized features of the characters, such as oversized eyes, undulating noses, and blocky teeth. This zoomed and cropped presentation transforms familiar animated figures into something akin to color field paintings, where the figure itself becomes an exploration of color and shape (FAD Magazine).
KAWS' use of the tondo format underscores his innovative approach to art-making, where the shape of the canvas itself becomes an integral part of the artwork's message. By employing this classical format, KAWS bridges the gap between contemporary and historical art forms, inviting viewers to reconsider the relationship between content and form in visual art.