Final answer:
The dots in Yayoi Kusama's work symbolize infinity and eternity, representing the energy of life and calmness of the moon. Her installations create immersive environments that extend these themes, encouraging viewers to experience the concept of the infinite.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the artwork of Yayoi Kusama, the dots represent a profound concept that extends beyond a simple visual motif. According to Kusama, a polka-dot symbolizes the energy of the world and the essence of our living life, as well as being a form of calmness akin to the moon. She sees these dots as a path to infinity and eternity, emphasizing the interconnectedness and communicative nature of existence itself. Moreover, the dots relate to her own personal experiences of hallucinations where her vision would be consumed by patterns. This aligns with her descriptions and artistic installations, such as her well-known Infinity Rooms, where the repetitive use of dots along with mirrors creates an illusion of endless space.
The reflective and immersive environments Kusama creates in her Infinity Rooms are especially designed to envelop the viewer, making them feel a part of the never-ending universe of dots. Through the strategic use of mirrors and light, alongside dotted and patterned objects such as pumpkins, Kusama's art invites an existential reflection on the vastness of the universe and our place within it. Therefore, engaging with Kusama's work offers an opportunity for viewers to experience a sense of boundlessness and the overwhelming nature of infinity.