Jul 06, 2009
Proto Monday >> Peekaboo Monster’s ‘The Birds’ Resin
Today on Proto Monday, we bring you the first look at Peekaboo Monster’s first original figure, The Birds resin. If you follow Peekaboo’s work, you’ll immediately recognize his recurring owl character featured in several of his paintings. Instead of following the pack, he’s decided to create Sitting Pretty as a wall-hanging piece. This decision works really well here and compliments the graceful sculpt.
The previously teased SDCC edition, is a homage to Alfred Hitchcock’s classic horror movie of the same name. A standard edition will follow the ‘con exclusive. Both of these editions are quite small – as one might expect for a figure produced by hand.
Jun 29, 2009
Proto Monday >> Lou Pimentel's Cranston Fellows Junior.
Happy Monday... We're back to fight the Monday blahs with the latest installment of Proto Monday featuring an exclusive look at the proto of Lou Pimentel's Cranston Fellows Junior resin (5" high) in production by mphlabs with an anticipated release of summer/fall '09. This resin version is a highly refined version of the character Lou has been drawing and making customs of for quite a while.
To get the lowdown on Cranston, we fired up the email for a quick interview with Lou Pimentel. Enjoy.
VP: Hi Lou. First up, congrats on Cranston! Before we dive into the toy, why don't you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got the toy bug ?
Lou: My name is Lou Pimentel and I am an artist based out of Brooklyn, NY. I got into this art scene about 3 years ago thanks to a co-worker and a close friend of mine.
My co-worker put me on to Sam Flores' work and I was blown away, I had no idea that there was a market for this type of art, and at that moment I knew I wanted to become a part of this scene.
I've been working really hard at getting my name out there and improving my technical skills. Right now everything I do involves oil paint, which I love, it's a medium that one could spend a life time trying to master, but I'm up for the challenge.
The way I got into vinyl toys was through a close friend of mine. He mentioned that a new guy (Triston Eaton) had moved on the block that created toys for a company called KidRobot, at the time I had no idea who KidRobot was, but I checked out their website and was amazed at what I saw. That Christmas my wife got me 2 Munny's and it was all down hill from there... I was hooked.
Jun 22, 2009
Proto Monday >> Big Egypt by Jim Woodring
Today on Proto Monday we bring you the very first public look at the sculpt for the upcoming Big Egypt: Parlor Sphinx resin (5”, ed. of 50) figured created by celebrated cartoonist Jim Woodring and produced by Cardboard Spaceship. Over the years Jim has created numerous memorable characters but he definitely seems to have some affinity for frogs including Mr. Bumper and now Big Egypt.
The new figure offers a humorous and quirky look at one of the iconic landmarks of ancient Egypt. Traces of the inspiration are most obvious in Big Egypt’s side profile which features a long and gradual sloping back. The curiously pronounced right eye is perhaps the most striking element of the figure and appears to carry some Egyptian symbolism. Judging by the box art, Big Egypt will feature a ‘natural’ color scheme.
If all goes according to plan, Cardboard Spaceship will release Big Egypt at their SDCC 09 booth.
Jun 15, 2009
Proto Monday >> Nathan Jurevicius’s Geguzis
When these images hit the inbox, they had ‘Proto Monday’ all over them. So today we’re happy to bring you the first look at Nathan Jurevicius’s gorgeous new bird-like Geguziz resin art toy in production by Cardboard Spaceship. Geguziz measures 8” from the bottom of the base to the top of the exotic bird. If all goes well, Cardboard Spaceship will drop this lovely limited-edition piece at SDCC. Info is a bit scarce at the moment, but these sweet pics should tide you over until there’s more on the toy.
Jun 08, 2009
Proto Monday >> Sam Flores x UP x TLS –- Dragon Boy
Today on Proto Monday we’re bringing you the very first look at Sam Flores’s amazing Dragon Boy (10”) vinyl art toy created for Upper Playground’s 10th Anniversary and produced by The Loyal Subjects. Taking a bold approach, Flores has designed Dragon Boy in three separate pieces – head, midsection and tail, that give the illusion of a Dragon floating through the clouds. The design concept will be familiar to those who viewed his recent LA solo at Subliminal projects which featured a similar painting.
The figure pushes the conceptual limits of art toys through its beautiful design, imaginative presentation, and technical paint application featuring highly detailed gradient blends. By taking risks with a firm emphasis on artful display, Dragon Boy points towards a promising future for art toys driven by imagination rather than the status quo. Slated for an August/September drop, the limited-edition figure will ship in a double-sided window box and come with a scenic card insert. Very exciting.
Jun 01, 2009
Proto Monday – Kalua Moola by Lord Mesa
Today on Proto Monday we bring you an exclusive first look at the sculpt for Lord Mesa’s Kalua Moola resin which is in development from Argonaut Resins. While some litty piggy’s might just sit passively and wait for their owners to deposit some coin, Kalua Moola isn’t like the others. No sir, he’s got plenty of fight, just the thing for these hard times.
The figure stands 4” and will come with resin coin and band accessories (not shown). Like other Argonaut Resin releases, Kalua Moola will be limited to 25 pieces over the course of several waves. In addition to Lord Mesa’s colorways, one of the waves will feature versions from guest artists.
Apr 27, 2009
Proto Monday >> 3’ Severed Billy Bananas Head
Tristan Eaton’s naughty monkey is front and center for The Billy Bananas Show opening next Thursday (5.7) @ the Jonathan Levine Gallery in NYC. For today’s unconventional Proto Monday, we’re happy to unveil the centerpiece for the hybrid art show + launch for Interspectacular’s Billy vinyl. How to herald Billy’s launch in a fashion befitting one of the most respected ‘new contemporary’ galleries in the country ? A 3’ Severed Billy Bananas Head! Built in resin, this bad boy will bring Billy’s twisted style to life in a grand way. Since this is proto Monday, we have pics of the unpainted piece – all the better to admire the sculpt. Check the mondo tongue! At this point, this decapitated sculpture is a one-off piece designed specifically for the Billy Bananas show. Enjoy plenty o’pics of Billy’s severed head and the five Billy Bananas colorways after the jump.
Jonathan Levine Gallery
529 West 20th Street 9E
New York, NY 10011
212.243.3822
Mar 30, 2009
Proto Monday >> Moon Claw
[Today we have a special Proto Monday installment for you all the way from Japan thanks to superior toy sleuthing from Luke Rook who sheds light on this mysterious beast. Wicked sculpt. Enjoy.]
This mixed-matched abomination is somewhat of a mystery for now. Very little is known about this little beast other then it's name, Moon Claw. It stands about 5 inches and feeds from it's center mouth. Brought to life by Osaka's own Dr. Strange Toys. Moon Claw will be their first foray into the vinyl world. Lock the doors, this monster is on the way.
Mar 23, 2009
Proto Monday >> Jesse Hernandez’s Ozomahtli
Happy Proto Monday! Today we're stoked to bring you an exclusive first look at Jesse Hernandez's first original figure, Ozomahtli, coming from Bic Plastics. As you can see, the figure's hyper-detailed sculpt finally does Jesse's art justice. While platforms help to promote an artist they are definitely limited in terms of translating an artistic vision. Not so with this figure which brings the full impact of Jesse's Aztec inspired art to bear. It's an intimidating piece at 9" tall (6" without the removable headress) and roughly 7" wide. Beyond pics of the sculpt and original designs (after the jump), we figured it was only right that you hear from the man himself. So here's our interview with Jesse Hernandez.
Hey Jesse. Can you give us the lowdown on Ozomahtli? What was the inspiration for the design?
I wanted to create a toy that reflected my style and heritage. Also to create a piece that is very detailed and intense, with a timeless design. There have been many monkey inspired toys before, but I wanted to make the king of all monkeys with Ozomahtli.
Your work is deeply rooted in ancient cultures such as Aztec and Mayan -- does Ozomathli come from one specific culture or is it a mix? How do you approach the balance between cultural accuracy and compelling toy design ?
Ozomahtli literally means "Monkey" in Nahuatl the language of the Aztec people. My work generally reflects the Aztec culture, but I'm definitely influenced by the Mayan as well. I try to make art that will spread knowledge, and also inspire other people, in much the same way as my canvas work.
Mar 16, 2009
Proto Monday >> Jared Deal’s Kanji
Today for Proto Monday we’re bringing you an exclusive first look at Jared Deal’s Kanji resin figure. Drawing on inspiration from Japanese monsters, Kanji is a bulbous three-eyed beast. Kanji ups the weird and scary factor while still retaining Jared’s signature ‘toon look (especially the facial details). The followup to Vladimir, this is Jared’s 2nd original resin art figure done in collaboration with sculptor Eric Nocella Diaz’s Argonaut Resins. Look for the 1st drop on April 1st (no, seriously).
Keep watching Vinyl Pulse for more on Kanji in the near future. We’re curious to see how the figure will be painted – perhaps a spray-based approach similar to that used with vintage Japanese monster/Kaiju toys. Finally, since life isn’t quite all about toys, look for Kanji to join Vladimir on brand-new artist series metal cuffs from Tattooed Steel.
Mar 09, 2009
Proto Monday >> Amanda Visell's Birthday Dragon
It’s time for another installment of Proto Monday (ok, so we’re a little late today…). Today we’re bringing you the exclusive first look at Amanda Visell’s Birthday Dragon resin. Based on her original “Dragon Birthday Party” painting (after the jump), this one features a removable cowgirl riding atop a baby-eating dragon. Classic Amanda – whimsy in the face of dire circumstances. Release date? Hmmm…. I wonder when it could be ?
Feb 23, 2009
Proto Monday >> Itokin Park’s Lucha Bear
Today on Proto Monday we introduce a new chapter in Itokin Park’s toy history. Here’s a sweet look at Kazuhiko Ito’s first self-produced original vinyl – Lucha Bear. Featuring a slightly different style from his previous figures, this one is a tribute to many childhood hours spent in front of the TV mesmerized by professional wresting. His favorite competitor was a foreign-born masked luchadaor wrestler.
Along with pictures of protos (grey and black) – Kazu also sent along design art plus some sweet factory shots of early production, including the rotocast molds and just-pulled vinyl (with the ragged edges, prior to cutting).
The 6” figure is in the later stages of development through a Japanese vinyl factory. The debut color release (w/sparkle) will drop in the 2nd half of March in Japan from the Itokin Park web store. It will also be available from select stores in the USA and UK.
From hand-made resins (which ruled), to vinyl to his own self-produced vinyl – Itokin Park continues to grow and excel. Impressive and justly deserved. If you’re in SF, be sure to come out for his solo show opening this Saturday, February 28th @ Super7.
Feb 16, 2009
Proto Monday >> Scribe’s Rhino
KC artist Scribe has gained a big following from his vividly creative and masterfully executed custom figures. Which left us and I’m sure others wondering when his own characters would make the jump from his artwork to the realm of art toys. Here's the first (of hopefully many) answers.
For a special President's Day edition of Proto Monday, we're happy to bring you the first look at Scribe's limited-edition 8" resin figure of his signature Rhino character complete with bucket, plunger, spray can and backpack) coming from Cardboard Spaceship. Want more info ? So do we. More as we get it.
We're happy to see Cardboard Spaceship and others embracing resin as way of bringing original characters to market in very low runs. This exciting trend has definitely sharpened the art toy genre's edge by reclaiming its early risk-taking spirit.
Dec 15, 2008
Proto Monday >> Amanda Visell’s Dragon Scout
Amanda Visell’s tongue-in-cheek (or is that girl in the stomach?) Dragon Scout made its debut as a limited-edition wood sculpture at the Spring ‘07 VTN show. It proved quite popular with a near instant sell-out. That success created a wee problem… How would collectors beyond the lucky 25 satisfy their burning desire to own their very own Dragon scout ?
The answer is … vinyl ;-) As we revealed about a week ago, Switcheroo is in the middle of production on a Dragon Scout vinyl. For today's Proto Monday, we're bringing you an exclusive look at Amanda's hand-painted painter master of the original green colorway. Standing 6.5” tall, the vinyl Dragon Scout is smaller than the original wood version. While very similar to the original design, this one has an open-mouth pose to show off his pearly whites instead of the original closed mouth pose.
The vinyl version comes with the camp fire accessory from the original release plus an all-new girl scout figure. For all of you who crave articulation -- Dragon Scout delivers with 6 points of articulation (head, tail, 4 legs). As you can see in the shots of the unpainted proto (after the jump), the vinyl Dragon Scout has a cool wood texture.
We're looking forward to the Dragon Scout Vinyl release sometime in '09 which will also include a rarer blue edition. Props to Amanda for her first self-produced vinyl figure. Click through for more pics of the green paint master and the unpainted proto.
Nov 17, 2008
Proto Monday >> Itokin Park’s Robby the Space Fireman
Happy Monday morning… For today's Proto Monday feature we’re pleased to bring you the first shots + news of Itokin Park’s (Kazuhiko Ito) second figure in the works from Kuso Vinyl which marks a great start for the new company with four announced projects so far. As you can see from these sculpt shots, Robby the Space Fireman features Kazuhiko's signature aesthetic particularly with respect to the face as well as the body shape.
While Robby feels familiar (and that's a good thing in our book) -- there are some new design elements here. As you can see from the colored flat art after the jump, the figure design makes use of pad printing (or potentially spray masks) which allows for the use of more detailed graphic elements than we've previously seen from Kazuhiko (water gun, backpack). In what we believe is a first for Itokin Park, Robby comes with an accessory, a futuristic water gun which apparently hooks via hose into a water pack.
At this stage release specifics are few and far between. We're expecting painted sample shots sometime in December. We'll definitely keep you updated. 2009 looks set to be a huge year for Itokin Park -- much deserved. More pics after the jump.
Nov 10, 2008
Proto Monday >> Carnival Cartoons's Pierce and Nathan
We're proud to bring you a double-shot of vinyl for this morning's Proto Monday. So shake off that morning grogginess and enjoy our exclusive first full look at the wax casts for the next two Carney character figures from Carnival Cartoons -- Pierce, The Human Pincushion, & Nathan, The Dog-Faced Boy.
Pierce and Nathan are being show together, as they will be sold as a set. Created by Jared Deal and Garnet Syberg, this new duo was sculpted by Eric Nocella Diaz who has worked on the entire Carney line. Both figures have highly detailed sculpts. Pierce features five piercings -- two in each ear and one in his left brow. The final production figures are sized to the same scale as the previous Carney figures -- Pierce will measure out at 5.5" while the Nathan comes in at 4".
The Carnival Cartoons figures are appealing in part because of their humorous back story which links each character to one another. Here's the official tale of Pierce and Nathan:
"Pierce and Dogboy are the Carney family mischief makers! Pierce is the quintessential bratty younger brother, and Dogboy is Pierce's pal, a loving pet, and... a fur covered wingman! Pierce relishes his gross-out gig as "The Human Pincushion" in the family sideshow act. (He's got more holes than a boardwalk put-put course). When Dogboy isn't doing double duty as the family's household hound, and Pierce's partner in crime, he wows the crowds at Barker's sideshow with his furry face and outrageous animal antics!"
The first edition will drop in early December. There will be 500 total pieces across five colorways -- 3D Retro Exclusive (50 Pieces), Monkeyhouse Toys exclusive (50 pcs), Plastic and Plush Exclusive (50 pcs), Carnival Cartoons Classic (250 pcs) and Carnival Cartoons Web Exclusive (50 pcs).
Nov 03, 2008
Proto Monday >> Itokin Park’s Iti Pinehead
Happy Monday after Halloween to you. For this edition of Proto Monday, we bring you an exclusive first look at Itokin Park’s Iti Pinehead in production from Kuso Vinyl. While this figure carries on Kazuhiko’s penchant for cute characters, it feels like a bit of a changeup from his recent vinyl projects. With the bristling spikes, his take on the hedgehog is born and bred for 3D and takes advantage of the possibilities of the medium. The shape has some what of a wind-blown feel with the swept back ears, the shortened front and elongated back which features a cute tail.
The sculpting is done (as you can see) and a wax cast has been created. The next step is mold making. When complete, Iti Pinehead will stand 5" tall. The first colorway will be limited to 150 pieces.
While Itokin has released prior production vinyl pieces through One Up, Iti Pinehead should be
more accessible and more affordable to a wider collector base. For the data-obsessed out there (hmmm, that’s all collectors, right ?), this is the third announced figure from Kuso Vinyl. The other two are Rotobox’s Celsius and Nakanari’s Ninja Spiki. We’ll also spill the beans and say that Iti Pinehead is the first of two Itokin Park toys in production from Kuso Vinyl. The second design is a more familiar piece, very much in the vein of some of his existing figures with a few new wrinkles. See more of Iti Pinehead (including flat art) after the jump.
Oct 20, 2008
Proto Monday >> Nakanari’s Ninja Spiki
Today we’re happy to bring you an exclusive advanced look at Nakanari’s first original vinyl figure, Ninja Spiki, due in Spring ‘08 from Kuso Vinyl. Nakanari broke into the designer toy scene with the Misfits of Nakanari figures and continued to refine his skills on numerous customs and original projects. In the last few years, he’s been drawing, painting, and creating his Spiki character. The stealthy, deadly Ninja Spiki was featured prominently in his recent show at myplasticheart NYC.
As this is Proto Monday, you’re looking at pictures of the completed Ninja Spiki. The final figure will stand 8” tall and be available in a few editions including the original black/red colorway (after the jump). The large head complete with furry 'spikes' and removable scarf is pretty striking. And just in case you think this is all about kawaii, Spiki is packing... a Katana which attaches on the back in a removable sheath. Articulation ? Yes, the head (neck), hands (rotate 360 degrees) and tail (bendy, baby!). The included pair of Shurikens and Katana feature a peg system for easy weapon handling.
Ninjas are cool for sure. Tony “Nakanari” Shiau’s Ninja Spiki ups the game by delivering deadly Japanese assassin action with a welcome does of ‘toon style. Ninja Spiki is the latest project from Mai Hiro – a collaboration between Nakanari and Soujohn. Keep watching Vinyl Pulse for the latest Ninja Spiki news. See more of the Ninja Spiki proto after the jump.
Oct 06, 2008
Proto Monday >> Celsius by RoboBox
Today on Proto Monday we’re brining you an exclusive first look at RoboBox’s Celsius. This winged cosmic crusader is the first production vinyl from Kuso Vinyl, an online retailer turned toy company.
RoboBox’s creation is a streamlined hero ready for action. The individual elements are familiar yet the design has a ‘cool’ factor potentially because it follows several tried and true conventions. The design approach combines detailed sculpted elements including the wings, helmet and weapons with a fairly straightforward boy. Intricate deco (pad prints) will be used to fill out the character. As the vinyl toy industry moves forward, we’re bound to see an increased crossover of genres. RoboBox wields anime styling with military precision for a look that seems to buck current designer vinyl aesthetics by flirting with well-established genres.
RoboBox’s action space opera backstory for Celsisus provides us with details of the expected diabolical conflict yet does so with tongue firmly planted in cheek. Delve into the character’s origin after the jump.
Kuso Vinyl caught us by surprise with their new toy production efforts. Celsius is certainly stylish and we’re looking forward to seeing the figure develop. While we can’t reveal anything specific yet, we can say that Kuso Vinyl has a few additional figures in the wings that will compliment Celsius’s lock and load vibe with a kawaii touch. Take a closer look at Celsius after the jump with sculpt pics + RoboBox’s illustrations of the character.
Sep 08, 2008
Proto Monday >> Jure Gavran’s Scapegoats
Proto Monday is back with Jure Gavran’s satirical Scapegoats figure. Off-loading blame on to helpless others is almost a past-time these days. Jure, an SF graphic designer, has given a face and identity to the nasty and sometimes downright heinous act of scapegoating – Scapegoat Billy. While the figure is near completion, we’re introducing it today with shots of the initial clay proto sculpts (more after the jump).
Scapegoat Billy’s sole purpose is to inflict ‘discriminatory blame’ on the innocent, also known as ‘Blamees’. His appearance reflects the ugly nature of the act he embodies – his bulging semi-transparent stomach serves as holding space for captive blamees so that he can assume their form and inflict undeserved blame upon them.
Scapegoat Billy stands 8” high and the included subjugated Blamee which he drags around on a leash is a more diminutive 3". The bottom section (with the feet) can be removed to place a Blamee into the figure which can be seen though the stomach. The figure will come in two limited-editions of 250 figures each -- Urban Criminal Billy (black colorway) and Immigrant Billy (brown colorway). We'll save the colorway reveals for another time, but we will say that hand-gun is part of Urban Criminal Billy's gear and that Immigrant Billy carries the leafblower. Look for more info here and on blamingu.com.
Aug 25, 2008
Proto Monday >> Jon Burgerman’s Heroes of Burgertown
No, you’re not seeing double. In early August we brought you the very first news and look at English doodler extraordinaire Jon Burgerman's Heroes of Burgertown minis coming from Kidrobot. Today we’re back with more exclusive pics from Jon’s new series including sculpts of Collie, Dinkton and Yimmi Bites (above). As we’re pretty close to the September 25th drop date, Jon’s also included a look at near-final painted versions including side-by-side sculpt and paint photos of Gobbler and Yimmi Bites plus a sweet turnaround photo sequence of a painted Tittymon.
While we love exclusive pics as much as you do, it’s important not to forget the quirky personalities behind the sweet looking characters. To help us get to know the Heroes of Burgertown just a lil’ better Jon has complied a guide for a few of the characters. Check out the character bios and all the pics after the jump. You’re now officially ready for the release of Jon Burgerman’s Heroes of Burgertown from Kidrobot on Thursday September 25th featuring 24 lovable characters.
Jul 21, 2008
Proto Monday >> Quixote by Angels and Gringos
Today on Proto Monday we’re pleased to unveil the final sculpt for Quixote, the newest figure from Daniel and Johnny Monahan’s Angels and Gringos. Designed and sculpted by Daniel Monahan, Quxiote is the continuation of Angels and Gringos' re-interpretation of Cervantes’ classic story which began with the release of Sancho.
Daniel’s meticulous sculpt utilizes “simple shapes” to portray “complex emotions”. Reality is often in the eye of the beholder. It’s often a matter of a point of view. Angel and Gringos’ Quixote is at once seemingly innocuous (as seen above) yet dangerously cunning seen from a top-down angle. Over several iterations, Daniel has worked to ensure that both Sancho and Quixote inhabit the same visual universe – note the similarities in the limbs and the prominent use of angles. However, Quixote is clearly and rightfully not Sancho – the large irregularly shaped eye sockets and sunken temples present him as a troubling and troubled soul.
With Quixote, Angels and Gringos continue to challenge the relatively narrow range of aesthetics seen in vinyl art toys.. Daniel’s skill as a sculptor and ability to think directly in 3D imbues Quixote with a complexity and subtlety rarely found in the vinyl market. This is sculpture realized as vinyl figure. By refusing to occupy either the rainbow-hued cult of cute or the shadows of edgy, Quixote challenges viewers and collectors.
The completed Quixote sculpt will be on display throughout SDCC (7.23 – 7.27) in the DKE Toys booth. The final figure will stand roughly 9” tall, ship with accessories (not shown) and drop in late ‘08 or early ‘09. One to watch. After the jump – a more revealing look.
Jul 14, 2008
Proto Monday >> NVC’s Nykioto
For Proto Monday, we’re proud to bring you the first painted shots NVC’s newest resin figure, Nykioto. Nykioto made his public debut right here on Proto Monday, so this is a return trip in full color. The figure above is one of the initial batch of five just completed by Bao and Spive.figures. Each is hand-painted and there are three different color schemes (neck tie – sneakers).
Nykioto is a poor street kid who works in a sweatshop making sneakers and survives on his wits and his ability to paint and entertain – the paintbrush in the pocket and the ukelele w/strings are strong details that relate the characters story. The painting approach also serves to highlight the story – while shading is used heavily throughout to give a sense of stress and wear and tear from the street, the kicks are done in strong flat colors – pristine, almost MIB. Finally, note the crossed fingers – there’s always hope of a better day.
Building on their reputation for detail and delivering a quality product throughout, Bao and Spive took discarded wood panels found in alleyways and used them to create mini wood crate boxes for this first run of five figures. A street box for a street figure. As Bao mentions going “indie” offers NVC tremendous artistic flexibility and control.
This initial batch of five Nykioto’s will drop @ SDCC from the ToyQube booth (#4837). After the jump – plenty of pics.
Jul 07, 2008
Proto Monday >> Jon Burgerman's Heroes of Burgertown
Hope you all had a great Fourth of July. Today we've got an absolutely packed Proto Monday courtesy of Jon Burgerman. Just the thing to get us all over a holiday 'hump' day and the usual Monday blahs. Jon is bringing his mastery of doodles to the blind-box scene with his upcoming Heroes of Burgertown minis due to drop September 25th, 2008 from Kidrobot.
We're stoked to bring you an exclusive look at five of the sculpts from the upcoming series. The raw sculpts are the first and probably most important step in ensuring an accurate translation from source art to toy. Jon paid particular attention to the sculpting to avoid what he sees as a pitfall with toy design, "There's a lot of vinyl out there that you could imagine have all been created by the same artists because they all stick to the same conventions of the form". As you can see in the series of pics of Coco Face (above), Jon's worked hard to ensure that the figures retain his hand-drawn style and do not appear "too perfectly polished and symmetrical."
So what's in a name? Here are Jon's thoughts on 'Heroes':
The premise for the series is that each character has been made into a toy as a reward for their achievements in Burgertown. There's a different reason as to why each has been awarded, most however can hardly really be called heroic. It's a gentle jab at the cult of celebrity and how it's the dubious accomplishments that usually get rewarded with recognition. You've got to wonder why certain people are put on a pedestal and heralded as people to aspire to. In turn it makes us reflect on our own society and culture.
If you're a fan of Jon's work, you'll likely recognize several of the figures. Jon explains, "The characters featured in the series have existed for many years and have appeared through-out my artwork, print work and online, so it's great to collect them altogether in one place for the first time. " We've been excited about this series since Jon sent over the pics -- can't wait to see more. Speaking of more -- we've got pics of four more Heroes of Burgertown sculpts after the jump. Enjoy.
Jun 23, 2008
Proto Monday >> Bunka’s Chaos Monkey
French artist Bunka has been making a name in the the toy scene with his sweet customs (El panda, Moody, and more). Today on Proto Monday, we’re stoked to bring you the very first look at his first original vinyl toy – Chaos Monkey (14 cm, 5-6 inches) due in September from Artoyz Originals.
While vinyl monkeys aren’t exactly endangered, Bunka brings a very different adrenalin fueled look that matches the intensity of his art style. Adding to the overall aggressive feel, the large eye sockets give the character somewhat of a ghastly (skull like) appearance. While Chaos Monkey has some bite, he’s also got a bit of humor with the exaggerated proportions.
Artoyz Originals will unveil fully-painted protos @ Bread and Butter in Barcelona (7.2 – 7.4). Chaos Monkey will drop in September ‘08. We’ll have pics of the color protos as soon as they make their trade show debut.