A retrospective of acclaimed US street artist KAWS opened in New York on Friday, featuring his trademark skull-headed figures.

The artist's unique creations have been featured around the world but the exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum marks the first major retrospective in his 25-year career.

KAWS: What Party, traces the artistic journey of Brian Donnelly, ex-graffiti artist turned painter and sculptor.

The exhibition, which runs until Sept 5, features his anti-heroes Companion and Chum, whose faces are inspired by skulls on pirate flags.