KAWS, the renowned contemporary artist known for his vibrant and engaging works, created the "Tension" series in 2019. This collection is an excellent representation of KAWS's ability to blend graffiti-inspired aesthetics with fine art practices, resulting in dynamic and visually compelling pieces.

The "Tension" series consists of ten paintings measuring 35 x 23 inches that feature abstract compositions with slightly more recent abstract KAWSBOB imagery and motifs. The series is also a set of ten screenprints with an edition size of 100.

These works are characterized by their vibrant color palette, utilizing neon and contrasting colors that inject life and vitality into the pieces. The series stands out for its abstract nature, which deviates from KAWS's more familiar use of iconic cartoon characters. Instead, "Tension" focuses on the interplay of shapes and colors, creating a visual tension that captivates viewers (Art in Context) (MyArtBroker).

The series was prominently featured in the exhibition "KAWS: Companionship in the Age of Loneliness" at the National Gallery of Victoria. This exhibition highlighted KAWS's ability to create works that resonate with a broad audience while maintaining a critical edge that engages with contemporary cultural themes. The "Tension" paintings, with their abstract forms and vibrant colors, exemplify KAWS's unique approach to art, blending elements of street culture, pop art, and fine art into a cohesive and impactful body of work (ICON)(Art in Context).