Dropout Bear
The Dropout Bear, also referred to as the Kanye Bear or the Graduation Bear, is an anthropomorphic symbol, character, and mascot for American rapper Kanye West. The bear was originally designed by graphic designer Sam Hansen, and was used in the album cover art, promotion, and music videos for West's first three studio albums, The College Dropout (2004), Late Registration (2005), and Graduation (2007).
Dropout Bear
- "Through the Wire"
- September 30, 2003
- "Kids See Ghosts Animated Show preview"
- June 26, 2020
Sam Hansen
Background[edit]
The Dropout bear was originally designed by graphic designer Sam Hansen.[1][2] Its first commercial appearance came on the cover art for West's debut single "Through the Wire" in September 2003. The character would later appear on the cover art of West's debut studio album The College Dropout in February 2004. The album's cover was handled by art director Eric Duvauchelle of Roc-A-Fella Records, which depicts the Dropout bear in a school gymnasium, wearing a suit coat, red t-shirt, and jeans.[3]
The Dropout bear suit also made an appearance in the music video for West's "The New Workout Plan" in 2004.[4]