SoftoyHobby Archives

Exclusive: Interview With Toy Creator/Customiser Adam Pratt

(Hand Painted Skekiltor, Adam Pratt/Halfbad Toyz- Art and Design Steven Patt 2011)

With his custom toy work featuring in both of our recent ‘Rivet Wars‘ articles, we decided to delve a little further into the world of artist Adam Pratt. The Massachusetts based toy designer/customiser has produced a number of amazing pieces over the years, but it wasn’t until the formation of Halfbad Toyz back in November of last year that his work gained the recognition it deserved- quickly shooting him and his team to the top of the ‘indie’ art toy scene.

(A selection of Adam Pratt’s custom work for Ted Terranova’s Rivet Wars 2011)

Working on several successful projects including the FOEZ line, Fruit Fighters, and the original Captain Plastic mini, Halfbad disbanded at the end of July, leaving Adam to focus on his solo toy projects, collaborations, and customs. His recent work has included a number of keshi (rubber mini-figures, made popular in the mid 80’s) kit-bashes, the aforementioned Rivet Wars customs, several limited run resin casts, and an as-yet unrevealed collaborative toy sculpt.

FOEZ Line, 2011

(Skekiltor- FOEZ, Halfbad Toyz- Art and Design Steven Patt 2011)

“Skekiltor, The Mace of Hades was once a virtuous knight, but was corrputed by an evil shaman. In a harrowing evil ritual, he was changed from a knight to the monster you see today. His mace was fused to his arm so his weapon will never leave his side.”

(Podiagon- FOEZ, Halfbad Toyz- Art and Design Steven Patt 2011)

“Podiagon was a humanoid once, but ill fortune befell him after diving into the ocean on his planet. He did not see the evil symbiotic organism in the water, and as he dove in he was stuck, and the organism used his DNA to form Podiagon. All that is left now of the host is his feet, sticking out the top of the intelligent and evil mass.”

So, even with the goodbye to Halfbad earlier in the year, Adam has been making some serious headway in establishing himself as one to watch in the growingly saturated art toy scene. We were lucky enough to catch some time with the man himself last week to discuss toys, influences and future plans- we hope you enjoy!

(Captain Plastic, Adam Pratt 2011)

First off, information on your work is pretty scarce, can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background? Any highlights from your career so far?

Well, Halfbad Toyz was my first foray into the designer toy scene. My buddies Alex and Ahren came on board when I started customizing toys this time last year. Before that I had never done any toy customs. I come from a miniature and garage kit background for painting and modelling.

Halfbad Toyz had a very good run, we put out some very popular figures includign Skekiltor (sculpted by Steven Patt) and our Fruit Fighters mini figure line. I decided that I wanted to explore the different avenues of my art, and so I made the choice to end Halfbad Toyz on an upnote. It had a great run, and I think it was the right thing to do.

My background, as I mentioned, was purely a miniature and resin model kit painter. I worked for Games Workshop for many years, and still do commission work for miniature painters and private collectors. My father started teaching me to paint when I was eight, and I really think my experience has given me a very unique “look” to my customs and original pieces.

I currently live in the Pioneer Valley in Western Massachusetts, the environment here is very supportive of the arts, and our local gallery (FOE Gallery) has been awesome in working with us and supporting the designer toy movement.

One of the highlights that stands out for me is the relase of our Skekiltor figure. It was designed, sculpted, cast, painted and distributed all on our own, out of pocket. We had no idea really how to do it, and it was a fairly big success for us. We were humbled by the response from the community. It felt good to be able to offer a fairly priced, really cool toy.

(Kinkeshi customs, Adam Pratt)

Where does your love of toys stem? You’ve worked with the classic kinkeshi figures (and Onell Designs’ similar creations) on numerous occasions, did the rubber miniatures feature heavily in your childhood?

My father was an antique dealer for almost thirty years, and I grew up playing with Marx toy soldiers and Auburn rubber cars. I have always had a love and appreciation for toys, but as an adult I really focus on the pop culture aspect of them.

The small rubber and plastic figures were not big in my toy collection as a kid, I was a Transformers kind of guy. However, because of my extensive background in miniature painting, the first customs I did were the smaller rubber figures. It seemed natural to transition to them, and it just kind of stuck. I have a healthy following that collects my customs, and I really enjoy painting them.

The Glyos figures are, in my opinion, one of the best desgined toys ever created. They are affordable, fun, well made and are the perfect platform for customizers. I enjoyed painting and customizeing every single Glyos I have done, and I will continue to do them as long as those toys are being made.

(Glyos by Onell Designs- Adam Pratt Customs)

What artists/toy designers have inspired you in your work. Is there anyone you follow in particular?

I have spent the past year really looking at other artists work. I have to say that I am constantly inspired by the community as a whole. Everyone is doing their own thing, but this past year guys like Ted Terranova from Rivet Wars and Motorbot have really got me thinking and brainstorming.

I try to give everyone their due. Something that I really can’t stand is the “rockstar” mentality of some of the toy artists. I am a really humble person, and I just do what I do. I want people to like my toys and customs, and take them for what they are. I am just a vehicle for wherever creativity comes from.

(Big Muscamoot by Chris Ryniak, Adam Pratt custom)

What plans do you have for the future? You’ve been doing quite a bit of casting recently, have you ever considered working on a full series of original toys?

The future looks very rad. I have a resin toy coming out in a week or so that has been the product of a collaboration with artist and designer Vanessa Ramirez. I can’t talk too much about it, but we will be releasing the info and first photos very soon.

I plan on coming out with a line of fantasy resin figures, I am working on the sculpts now, and a couple of “lowbrow” releases as well. I really like the pop culture homages (bootlegs if you like) and I will continue to offer those.

As far as more mini figures, I still would like to offer the Fruit Fighters again. They need a re-tooling, and some cosmetic changes.

Finally, I want to say thank you to everyone who supports my work! It humbles me every time someone likes something enough to purchase it, I really appreciate it.

(Fruit Fighters- Halfbad Toyz/Adam Pratt 2011)

Go to Adam’s blog here to read more about his work. His Big.Cartel site features new resin toys and customs on a weekly basis, so be sure to check it out if your interested in purchasing his work (he is currently featuring the latest GID figures from the Captain Plastic series, made to order).

Update: Francesco De Molfetta’s ‘Pop Fiction’ Artwork Reveal

(Astrobese, 2011)

Featured in the Tru:Teknology Files at the beginning of last month, Francesco De Molfetta’s Pop Fiction show is finally drawing to a close this week. Housed at California’s esteemed Toy Art Gallery, Molfetta’s show features a variety of new and re-interpreted sculptures in his iconic style- a satirical take on pop culture icons that elegantly question our overstimulated and material obsessed society.

We’re in the process of trying to secure an interview with Molfetta to discuss Pop Fiction and his future plans, but in the mean time, we’ve decided to post some of our favourite pieces from the project-

Gundama – Michelangelo

Dictatorabbits

“Francesco De Molfetta was born in 1979, he lives and works in Milan, little Italy, Europe. Francesco’s art is bold and holds back no punches. When viewing his art, the observer is invited to closely examine his own fate and position in the cultural landscape. Does he transcend and reshape, or remain complacent and numb in a material-excessive and sensory-overstimulated world? One has to decide because Francesco’s art demands an answer.”

– Toy Art Gallery press

Mercejesus – Vaticane

Gone Drake

All of the works are now available to purchase by e-mailing the gallery directly at info@toyartgallery.com, with full previews available here.

(photos- TAG)

Toby’s Secret Society: Original Drawings by Gary Baseman @ Rotofugi

Opening last Friday (October 28th) at Chicago’s esteemed Rotofugi gallery, Gary Baseman’s latest mini-exhibition, ‘Toby’s Secret Society’, celebrates the release of the artist’s new blind-box toy series, a collaboration with leading lifestyle brand and art toy manufacturer, Kidrobot. The collection of 15 original works have been drawn on vintage book pages, in Baseman’s iconic deadpan style, depicting the Goddess of Dreams, Princess of Secrets, and the Knight of Good Fortune amongst others from Toby’s enchanting yet odd ball world.

The toy series, one of many projects Baseman and Kidrobot have collaborated on, was released October 20th. Featuring over 12 different designs (including several Toby variants), the 3″ toys have been limited to just 2,500 cases, so won’t be around for long!

Toby’s Secret Society Series- Kidrobot x Gary Baseman 2011

“The mythologies behind any secret society are complex and powerful. From the Masons to the Illuminati, mystery, intrigue, and deep spiritual roots can be traced back through their histories in both subtle and dangerous ways.

Toby, the protector of dreams, memories, and darkest secrets, commands a sect of 11 spirits and brethren – the Disciple, the Princess of Secrets, the Goddess of Dreams, the Knight of Good Fortune, and the Seven Sacred Magi: Compassion, Destiny, Freedom, Lust, Love, Trust, and Truth – a select group of figures chosen to represent the impulses of man.”

-Kidrobot press

The collection of 15 original drawings are now available to view and purchase through Rotofugi’s shop for the princely sum of $600 each. Slightly more affordable, Kidrobot and Gary Baseman’s toy series can be had for $9.95 each from all good art toy purveyors.

A selection of Baseman’s ‘Toby’s Secret Society Drawings, Rotofugi

Toby’s Secret Societ- Gary Baseman

Rotofugi Gallery, Chicago, IL 60614

Mini-Exhibit of Drawings

Oct. 28-Nov. 27, 2011

(photos- rotofugi)

“THE EVOLUTION WILL BE FABULOUS”- New Sculptures by Peter Gronquist

Closing tomorrow after a two week stint at Gallery 1988’s prestigious Venice location, the “Evolution Will Be Fabulous” exhibition showcases the latest work by hotly tipped Portland based painter and sculptor, Peter Gronquist. Visiting familiar themes, Gronquist presents a series of spectacularly grotesque sculptures, featuring his trademark blend of animal busts, weaponry, designer label references and a staggering amount of 24 karat gold. The works are now available to view and purchase through Gronquist’s Revolution blogspot, with prices ranging from $300 – $8,000.

Whilst many read into Gronquist’s work as a comment on our culture’s glamorisation of violence, war profiteering, rampant consumerism and pervasive branding, the artist insists that his art has no real purpose- apart from satisfying his urge to “make something completely ridiculous”.

“…Then people gave me money for them. So I made a ton of them because I’m a whore. I find that it’s a parody of myself because I also like ridiculous things sometimes for no logical reason. I’m a victim of the rampant consumerism that I parody. It’s all very confusing.“

– Peter Gronquist interview

Check Gronquist’s site here for a look at his extensive collection of painting and sculpture. The “Evolution Will Be Fabulous” pieces are available to purchase through GronquistRevolution here.

Next at Gallery 1988 Venice…

With the end of one great show comes the news of another, with Gallery 1988’s Venice location gearing up for the highly anticipated “Ghosts” exhibition, set to drop next Thursday (November 10th). A collaboration between four of America’s hottest emerging illustrators, including Double Fine’s (Physonauts/Brutal Legend) Scott Campbell, the show features a host of paintings, illustrations and prints, influenced by the artist’s love of the afterlife.

Scott will also be releasing his latest picture book, ‘Amazing Everything- The Art of Scott C’, on Saturday (November 12th) at the gallery, along with the eighth instalment of the Showdowns print set.

(photos- Peter Gronquist)

Exclusive: Interview With ‘Rivet Wars’ Creator- Ted Terranova

Featured here at the beginning of the month (our most popular article to date), Rivet Wars is the first art toy project from illustrator, Ted Terranova. Since the release of his first batch of ‘Vert Tank’ resin casts back in August, Ted’s series has gone from strength to strength, spawning comic strips, illustrations, back stories and a host of upcoming toy designs for his growing list of avid fans. With a strong underground following at NYCC this year, Ted’s beautifully created world has gained recognition from the likes of Onell Design, Super 7 and master resin caster, the Sucklord himself.

Rivet Wars New York Comic Con 2011 Exclusives

Taking time out from his very busy schedule, Ted has graciously answered a few questions I’m sure all of his followers have been dying to ask. If there’s anything else you’d like to pose to the Rivet Wars creator, e-mail him directly at info@rivetwars.com. Anyone interested in purchasing Rivet Wars’ first two toy releases can do so at Ted’s shop, here.

First off, how did you get on at NYCC? Did you meet any Rivet Wars fans / collectors, and did you get see any artists you admire / follow yourself?

It was great. At first I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to meet up with anyone. The show is so huge. All I had was my Rivet Wars shirt to identify me and I knew that people would be hanging around the Onell booth. So I did some stops there but then finally just asked someone if they hung out on the octobertoys forum, and it turned out that Jarrod from the forum overheard me say that and saw my shirt. He introduced me to Connor and we all just started talking about toys and Rivet Wars, as well as Jarrod’s cool projects. Then I met Matt of Onell and he just blew me away with his great attitude towards art, and creating. Talking to him, you can tell how much thought he puts into all his work and how much he cares about the people who buy his stuff. We did a toy trade which was amazing for me.

The next day I got to meet George Gaspar. It is his podcast, Toybreak, that got me thinking about making toys. Without his podcast and forums, Rivet Wars would not be. He was super cool to talk to and really encouraging. I can’t say enough good stuff about him. At that same time I also met Steve of sketchbot fame. He has really inspired me with how he made his toy and the process he went through. And he was a fan of Rivet Wars! Then I ran into my friend Roger, who I know from collecting Godaikins and Shogun Warriors toys. He introduced me to Frank from Super 7. It was great to hear some stories from the production retail side of things. Super7 just makes amazing stuff. Later on I got Joe Ledbetter to sign two of his zodiac toys for me. I’m a
big fan of his art and he’s just a really cool laid back nice guy. Also met some of my favorite comic artists. Geoff Darrow, Eric Canete, and Ben Caldwell all signed books for me and I got some great prints. Looking back at the show, it really could not have gone better. I can’t wait for next year.

Ted with Matt from Onell Design and the legendary Sucklord

What artists / toy designers have inspired you in your work?

I think I’m most inspired by toys and shows from my childhood. I grew up watching starblazers and gatchaman and playing with shogun warriors and Godaikins. So I think Go Nagai and Leiji Matsumoto have had a huge impact on my work. Later on I got a hold of some dougram toys and a scopedog. These are robot toys, but painted in camo, with armor and realistic cannons for
weapons. That struck a chord with me. The idea that you could have a war using tanks but in the shape of robots. I still have my dougram toys with working hydraulics in the legs and removable cockpits. Just amazing stuff. The Vert Tank is very much inspired by the Scopedog.

I’d also have to say Hayao Miyazaki has really impacted my aesthetic. I saw Nausicaa (Warriors of the Wind) in the early 80’s and again, there was this realistic look to the tanks and aircraft, but with an exaggeration of scale to the cannons and armor. I just love his stuff. The military stuff in Howl’s Moving Castle is also great. And I love his Daydream Note book which compiles his illustrations from Hobby Japan. His influence is pretty obvious in a lot of my designs.

And of course I think a lot about the cheap green army men everyone had as a kid. That’s the look I wanted to go for. But with something of the GiJoe feel. GiJoe is where the idea for the stats card came from.

With the Rivet Wars universe constantly developing, have you ever considered working on a storybook or full length comic to expand on the line’s mythology?

Absolutely. I have a pretty good idea of where I want to take the world. I’ve been working out the map of the world, the countries involved in the conflict and the characters the story would revolve around. I love the technology and the vehicles and the world of Rivet but I think I’ve finally learned that a good story is all about the characters. I want to create a story about a team of soldiers sent on a dangerous mission, almost suicidal, and desperate. A sort of last ditch effort to turn the tide of the war.

I’m planning to borrow heavily from my favorite tales like Starblazers, Star Wars, Lord of the Rings and the Odyssey. All stories about a group of people against whom the odds are stacked but who still have a chance to save their world if they can pull off the impossible. And it’s that journey and the trials along the road that will hopefully make for a good tale. And some crazy cool art 🙂

Sketches from the original batch of Vert Tank header cards

If there was enough commercial success in the series, would you ever consider a full production run for Rivet Wars? – a blind box line would be awesome!

I’d love to do that. The more toys, the more people enjoying rivet wars the better. I really didn’t start this expecting that many people to be interested and I still feel the same way. Rivet Wars is just me pulling together all the stuff that I really love. I didn’t imagine there were that many people who are interested in WWI tanks, resin toys and comics. But if there is enough of a following I’d really like to see more complex toys. Toys with moving tracks, opening hatches, removeable
drivers…articulation.

A blind box would be awesome. It’d be so cool to have other artists design their own variants of the grunts. I could really see it going like a GiJoe type thing – the snow soldier, navy seal, ninja warrior, flame thrower guy, etc. And then to have a nice painting of each dude in action, like on the GiJoe cards. That would be amazing.

What problems have you encountered as an ‘indie’ toy maker? Has casting with resin been as easy / difficult as you thought it would be?

When I first started making toys I had never done anything like this. I did have a weird job in high school making molds of teeth for an orthodontist but that was using plaster. I thought resin was like glass and really brittle. But the information on the octobertoys forum is amazing. After reading a bit and asking some questions I just jumped in. I’m an artist in video game industry so making the 3D model for the print was very familiar territory for me.

It was when I started making the molds and pouring the resin that I made a few mistakes and learned a lot. Some molds I rushed and they had bubbles in them. Some of the molds I tried to make as one piece but they ended up ripping. I also didn’t realize that I needed to do some work on the 3D prints before making the molds. And I had no idea how much clean up there would be on each piece. The Rivet Wars stuff is pretty detailed with lots of ins and out and that’s tough on the molds and makes for lots of places for bubbles to form and flash to build up. Also the 3D prints are pretty expensive. And don’t forget to use mold release…

But I think that for the most part I’ve been very fortunate with how my toys have worked out. I’m learning new things each day and I hope to make better and better toys with each piece in the line.

What can we expect for the future of Rivet Wars? Any more colorways / editions for your existing range planned, and will the Quad Stug be available by the end of the year? (we seriously cannot wait!)

The Grunt two packs are in the works now. I should be announcing something soon. Then the Quad Stug is next. I am REALLY excited about that toy. It’s like a dream for me. It’s a toy that I’ve always wanted but no one ever really made. I plan to take my time with that one and do it right. It’s also the most complex toy I’ve made with five separate pieces. I promise I’ll try and get it out soon.

Then I need to make Blighter grunt two packs. After that I’m not sure. An aircraft would be cool. I also have some sketches of a powered armor suit. Sort of like Ripley’s suit in the Aliens movie but with guns and armor. I think people would dig that. Or maybe a two legged walker type thing.

More paintings for sure and then I plan to compile my sketches, watercolors, photos, comics and notes into an art book. I think that would be really cool and something fun for fans of the Rivet world to look through.

I’d like to finish by saying that it thrills me to no end that people in Mexico, England, Singapore, Germany, Canada, the U.S., people all over the world, have a Rivet Wars toy sitting on their shelf. That these people see value in what I am doing, to me, is the greatest honor and compliment someone could give me. In response to that I am always trying to make Rivet Wars cooler, better, and more fun.

Thanks so much for supporting this project. And thanks for the interview 🙂

Vert Tank Walker Custom by Adam Pratt

We’ll be keeping you up to date on Ted’s progress over the next few months, including any details on the hotly anticipated Quad Stug and Grunt two-pack releases. Check the Rivet Wars site here for further information.

(photos- rivetwars)

Uncovered: Modern Monstrosity Comics

With London Comic Con drawing ever closer, we’ve decided to shed a little light on one of our favourite exhibitors, the amazingly talented Modern Monstrosity Comics. Founded way back in 1999 by illustrator duo Laurence Powell and Oliver Lambden, Modern Monstrosity was created as a platform for their action/adventure sit-com comic book, Tales From The Flat. Intent on working as an indie comic house, the duo have self-published all of their work, relying on distribution solely through gigs, club nights and conventions.

2005 saw Modern Monstrosity’s first appearance at London Comic Con, with the release of their re-worked trademark series, TFTF. The comic’s new approach appealed to a much wider audience, earning the artists an Eagle Award nomination in 2007, and again in 2008, propelling their work to the top of the indie comic scene.

Curtis and Terrorist / Tales from the Flat covers, Modern Monstrosity

Curtis and Terrorist sketch

Curtis and Terrorist boards

Modern Monstrosity booth, LCC 2010

Curtis hand cast resin toy

Whilst Laurence has recently turned his talents towards the music industry, Oliver still continues to develop the Modern Monstrosity library further, working on numerous comic projects including the surreal satire Curtis and Terrorist, comedy crime caper The Dan Lester Mysteries, and post-modern fairy tale, BLOC.

Currently working on completing the now vast Tales From The Flat saga, issues eight and nine should finally drop before the end of the year. Alongside Oliver’s work with Dan Lester on the Mystery Files, he has also begun work on a new ‘all ages’ comic book, tentatively titled ‘We Are Adventurers!’, which should see the light of day in the near future.

Dan Lester Mystery Files cover

Modern Monstrosity Comics will be exhibiting at the London Comic Con, opening this Friday (October 28th @ London ExCell) until Sunday. For more information, and to purchase any of the team’s back cataloge, check out their web page here.

(photos- modernmonstrosity)

London Comic Con MCM Expo @ ExCell London

With the mighty San Diego and New York Comic Cons opening to record breaking crowds this year, UK fans and collectors of sequential (comic) art have been largely left out in the cold- that was until now; Opening this Friday at London’s ExCell convention centre, the London Comic Con MCM Expo 2011 covers the bases of all things ‘geek’. From comic illustration to art toys, Japanese computer games to anime cosplay, there’s something for anyone even remotely interested in indulging their inner nerd.

2000AD’s LCC 2010 Booth

Featuring well over 130 of the comic/graphic novel industry’s finest, including the quirky Studio Taiko Fish, Marvel’s legendary Frazer Irving and Sci Fi writer Peter F Hamilton, the LCC’s Comic Village gives fans the chance to meet their favourite artists, ask questions and buy any of the exclusive merchandise on offer at the numerous booths.

A selection of LCC 2011’s attending artists

Modern Monstrosity Comics’ 2010 LCC Booth

The rest of the convention has been split into several different sections; ‘JapanEx’ will offer a fusion of Japanese and Asian culture, featuring a host of Anime/Manga, toys, games, Taiko drumming, Origami, and martial arts; LCC’s ‘Steampunk’ will become home to some of the niche genre’s leading artists and designers; the ‘T.V/Film’ area plans to cater for all things cult, including previews of Immortals and The Thing; whilst the Warner Bros sponsored ‘Games Expo’ is set to showcase the hottest products from the likes of Nintendo, Ubisoft, Capcom and Japanese game distributor, Rising Star.

LCC 2011’s Game Expo, featured games

On top of the daunting amount of booths and artists, leading art toy and comic distributors including the legendary Forbidden Planet, Neon Martian and Tokyo Toys will also be attending, featuring prints, toys, books and elusive comic con exclusives across the board.

The London Comic Con MCM Expo 2011 runs from October 28th-30th at the London ExCell, with tickets starting from £10. Check the web site here for more information.

(photos- lccmcmexpo)

TrustoCorp’s ‘Life Cycle’ @ Opera Gallery, NY

Opening this Friday evening (October 21st) at the Opera Gallery, NYC, ‘Life Cycles’ is the latest exhibition by the infamous street art crew, Trustocorp. Featuring the group’s larger-than-life approach across film, painting and interactive sculpture, Life Cycles is set to be their most ambitious project to date.

“After a long summer of highly publicized, illegal street projects ranging from fake bus stop ads for ‘The Real Housewives of Baghdad’ to illegal billboards for ‘Drive Thru Lipo Suction’, the anonymous art collective brings their work in doors for a more in depth look at their p…erspective on the state of American culture. The exhibition examines the experience of growing up and dying American with four installations representing childhood, puberty, adulthood and death. With the American Life Cycle as a jump off point, TrustoCorp brandishes satire and criticism through a range of over 50 works including stained glass windows, giant board games, kiddie rides, fortune tellers and vintage arcade games.”

-Life Cycle press

Botched Operation, Trustocorp 2011

100% American, Trustocorp 2011

Various Trustocorp NY signs

Forming shortly after the 2008 Presidential election, Trustocorp quickly gained notoriety by making and installing illegal political and satirical street signs across 13 of the US’ major cities. Once word was out about the crew’s intentions, Trustocorp was able to recruit a large following of volunteers, who actively install, paste and spread their socially conscious work and ideas across the country.

Having conquered the street, Trustocorp have been working on several different projects leading up to Life Cycles, including illegally ‘shop-dropped’ fake products (pictured), fake tabloid magazines and illegal billboard post-ups. Their latest efforts have caused quite a stir in the mainstream media, with features on the likes of ABC, Fox and BBC World News.

Shop-Dropped Fake Trustocorp Cereal Box

Pin drops of Trustocorp’s work across New York, one finger up to the establishment!

Alongside the massive undertaking of the Life Cycles show, Trustocorp have also been working closely with Everlast on the video for their latest single, ‘I Get By’. Featuring the masked artists at work across New York City’s streets, the film sees them spraying, painting and installing their infamous signs- at one point directly in front of the NYPD! Check out the video below.

Everlast feat.Trustocorp- I Get By [Music Video] 2011

Life Cycles- New Works by TrustoCorp

OPERA GALLERY NEW YORK
115, Spring Street
NEW YORK NY 10012 – USA

October 21st – November 11th 2011

(photos- trustocorp)

Zombiemonkie’s Zombie Art Project: The Best So Far…

Covered here at the Tru:Teknology Files at the end of last month, Mikie Graham aka Zombiemonkie’s Zombie Art Project is now in full swing, with over half of the putrid series now available to purchase through the Zombiemonkie store. Featuring a cast of over 65 customised Playmobil figures, a different pair of the zombified toys have been released each day throughout the month of Halloween. Prices for the pieces range between $30-$60 depending on the level of sculpting / customisation, with each of figures shipped in their own hand made and stained 6″ wooden coffin.

We love the project so much that we’ve decided to present to you a ‘best of’ collection of our favourite releases so far- here’s hoping the incoming entries over the next week can maintain the high standard! (back stories taken from Zombiemonkie’s site)

The Famished Father and the Succulent Schoolboy – $35.00

FF: This man of the cloth has had an insatiable hunger ever since he lost the top of his head last week to an overzealous parishioner. This hunger hasn’t disappeared despite feasting on a majority of the choir as well as quite a few of the Nuns that he found hiding around the castle like church he calls a home.

SS: Maybe it isn’t smart to keep the famished father and this delicious looking school boy trapped together in such a small coffin. If one bad thing doesn’t happen to the poor lad, another even crueler act is bound to take place.

The Thriller and Sanjay – $40.00

TT: This red leather clad pop star has been in zombie limbo since the mid 80’s. Only now after his official death can it be confirmed that MJ had been eating the flesh of young children for years to keep his appearance fresh and childlike (a little trick the zombie Elizabeth Taylor taught him).

SJ: MJ’s trusty boy servant, Sanjay has seen more than a child of his age should. Perhaps that’s why he can’t stop picking at his own brain. Luckily he still has that fancy turban to hide his self-inflicted wound from the ever watchful eye of his bizarre master.

The Pimp and Harriet the Half Ho – $45.00

TP: This dapper gentleman knows how to make a dollar the old fashion way…. pimping out street trash to the highest bidder. Although demand has tapered off lately, this “legitimate businessman” knows how to keep his customers happy…. introducing his new line of budget hookers- half the woman HALF the price!!

HH: Harriet would never go against her daddy. He helps her with money issues, never hits her, and above all else he buys her only the finest jewelry…. case in point her fabulous new Spine Bone necklace, a new design that is setting the zombie fashion world on fire!

Phantom Spaceman and Bongo – $50.00

PS: Ground control to Major Tom… Something with this space cadet is very, VERY wrong!
Ever since coming in contact with the on board scientific research animals, Tom here hasn’t been feeling quite himself…. In fact he is so spacy lately that he hasn’t even noticed the quarter sized meteor hole that has rendered his space helmet utterly useless.

B: Coming back on a deep space probe Bongo landed safely aboard the international space station and was whisked directly into medical care. This particular experiment seems to have gone horribly wrong, and bongo has become something the scientists on board have never encountered before… a new species that could very well destroy mankind as we know it.

The Ultimate Survivor – $50.00

Maxwell learned how to survive in the zombie wasteland quickly. Stay protected, stay armed, and above all else…. destroy their teeth and they can’t bite you! Frustrated with the current social climate, Max has decided to make a difference. Donning his custom survival suit and grabbing his sturdy sledge, Max has set out to take the world back for the living…. one smashed skull at a time!

We all scream… SOLD

Who doesn’t love the ice cream man? Smile on his face, bell brightly ringing, cart full of tasty treats. This business savvy fella has tweaked his once prosperous ice cream cart to fit a new business model…. all brains all the time and business is booming!!

Check out Graham’s other custom work over at the Zombiemonkie site here. His latest piece, entitled Hugo, uses the 10″ Bart Simpson Qee to hilarious effect (replete with rat/bird pet!), and will be featuring at the Bewitching Show at Stranger Factory this month.

(photos- zombiemonkie)

Le Petit Monstres: New Works From Scott Tolleson, Abe Lincoln Jr & Patricio Oliver

With a reception last Saturday, the Oh No! Doom gallery’s latest exhibition, Le Petit Monstres, has opened to huge success. Featuring the latest works from Abe Lincoln Jnr, Scott Tolleson, and Patricio Oliver, the show features ‘petite’ paintings, prints and resin cast toys, all with an appropriately monstrous tone.

Famed for their collaborations with the likes of Nooka, MAD Magazine, Kidrobot, Converse and Lucasarts, the trio’s unique approaches to low brow art compliment each other perfectly; Tolleson’s Maurice Sendak inspired paintings, Oliver’s pop art infused prints, and Lincoln Jnr’s 70’s style resin Globulon toys stand side-by-side in a beautiful tribute to all things MONSTER.

“OhNo!Doom’s very own mini monsterpiece theater! Three larger than life artists join forces to create petite works for petit monstres! Feast your eyes on the new monstrously small works by Abe Lincoln Jr., Scott Tolleson, & Patricio Oliver.”

-Le Petit Monstres press

All of the artworks are available to view and purchase through Oh No! Doom’s online shop here. The exhibition runs until November 5th.

Oh No! Doom’s Le Petite Monstres
1800 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Chicago, IL

(photos- ohno!doom)

Word to Mother’s ‘Essence Of Adolescence’ @ StolenSpace

Opening to a sell out crowd last Friday night (October 14th) at the legendary StolenSpace gallery, ‘Essence of Adolescence’ is the latest solo exhibition from respected contemporary artist Word To Mother. Signaling his fifth show at Brick Lane’s cultural hub, Word To Mother touches upon familiar themes in his latest work; juxtaposing colourful cartoon characters from memories of adolescence, with serious, emotive imagery inspired by the everyday thoughts and fears living in East London, Word To Mother’s trademark blend of styles come together to create some of his most thought provoking art to date.

“Essence of Adolescence is an enlightening glimpse into the artist’s visually obsessed mind. Word To Mother invites the viewer to take a glimpse of his inner mindscape. An outward manifestation that combines references drawn from his childhood and the visual stimulation that he absorbed.”

-Essence of Adolescence press

Fool – Lonesome

Same Old, Same Old

Just Another Lonely Night – Over-Used Bozo

Down On My Mind

Sometimes – Take It From Me

Born and raised in a small English seaside town, Word To Mother’s roots provide a stark contrast to his present home in London- the central inspiration for his latest works; bright, seaside inspired fluro reds, pinks, yellows and blues splash across a dull ‘London’ palette of greys, blacks and browns, fusing Word To Mother’s love of graffiti and the tattoo heritage of his hometown through beautiful typography and stunningly realised characters.

‘Essence of Adolescence’ will be running until October 30th at Brick Lane’s StolenSpace gallery, London. For more information on the show, check the gallery’s web page here, or e-mail Word To Mother directly at info@wordtomother.com. The exhibition has been scheduled for dates in San Francisco and LA in the coming months, so we’ll keep you up to date on any developments.

(photos- stolenspace)

Uncovered: Dan Goodsell’s Mr Toast- New Works for NYCC 2011

LA based illustrator Dan Goodsell has been brightening up the world with his hilarious brand of art for nearly ten years now, with the oddball cast of “The Imaginary World” (his signature series) featuring in numerous paintings, comic strips, animations, books and toys across the planet.

Originally (and rather ambitiously!) Goodsell planned to create his own theme park in a similar vein to Disneyland, so set about creating numerous characters including Mr Toast, Joe the Egg, Shaky Bacon and Lemonhead to form the basis of his imaginary world. Developing stories to build upon the characters personalities, Dan has since gone on to release several self-published low brow picture books including Mr Toast at the Circus, Imaginary World comics #1, GAGS and The World of Mr Toast to huge success.

Originally majoring in Physics, Goodsell is completely self taught in the world of low brow art. Proud that he has never been paid to work as an illustrator, the artist has been able to carve out a living from selling the numerous paintings and products he’s created over the years.

Fantastic Four #5- Mr Toast comic book cover series

Fantastic Four #2- Mr Toast comic book cover series

Dare Devil #8- Mr Toast comic book cover series

Spidertoast #3- Mr Toast comic book cover series

Known for his huge obsession with vintage design, his vast collection of iconic packaging, comics, illustrated educational books, and animated classroom films are an obvious influence in his work. One of his most successful long running lines, the Comic Book Covers series, is a perfect example of this; based on a host of Goodsell’s favourite Marvel Comics, the artist has re-imagined the covers using the cast of “The Imaginary World” to mirthful effect. Check out more of these priceless covers over at Goodsell’s Flickr account here.

Various Mr Toast watercolours for NYCC

Unfortunately, Dan will only be heading to the New York Comic Con this year as a visitor (previous years have seen the launch of exclusive Toast Boy vinyl toys, plushes and books), but will be about on the event floor on Friday and Saturday (this week) to answer any questions you might have. He will also be doing a small set-up at the Art Hustle Booth (#576) on Friday from 4-4.30, dolling out free custom sketch trading cards, with a small selection of watercolours (pictured) and other goodies available to purchase as well.

Gone Ninja- One of the many Mr Toast cartoons

Evolution- Dan Goodsell’s entry for Gallery 1988’s Retro Video Game Show

Check out “The Imaginary World” web page here for more information on Goodsell’s hilarious creations, or alternatively, you can e-mail him directly at grickily@yahoo.com with any questions you may have.

(photos- dangoodsell)

Jose Reynoso’s Gumpy Revolution Show @ Gunnzo

Opening last Saturday (October 8th), the Gumpy Revolution show has finally touched down at San Diego’s Gunnzo gallery. Curated by Gumpy creator, Jose Reynoso, the show features customs of the artist’s trademark character from a huge roster of artists, including the mighty Andrew Bell, Frank Kozik, the Beast Brothers, Marka27, Skinner, Paul Kaiju and J-Ryu.

The exhibition is pretty unique in that all commission and gallery mark-ups on the custom toys have been waved, meaning that all the pieces are priced reasonably (between $25 – $750), and that 100% of the money raised goes straight to the hard working artists. Unfortunately, Kozik’s, Saner’s and Marka27’s Gumpys will only be available to view at the show, but will be up for grabs at November’s Designer Con at an undisclosed price.

Custom Gumpy by Gary Ham

Apart from Gary Ham’s entry, full images of the toys haven’t been made available yet, but Jose has been kind enough to reveal a few teaser images (pictured below) prior to a full unveiling through the Gallery’s site at the end of the exhibition.

Debuting at last year’s Designer Con, Gumpy has become the crowning piece for up-and-coming artist Reynoso. The signature Kastro edition is limited to just 15 pieces, with an additional 5 artist proofs, each signed and numbered by the artist. Coming in at $92, the roto resin casted figure stands at around 6″ tall, and is presented in a laser etched wooden cigar case. There are still a few available, so drop by the Gumpy store here if your interested.

Reynoso has also made a limited number of blank DIY custom Gumpys, which can also be purchased through the site for $23 (sans cigar box).

Gumpy DIY – Kastro Gumpy

(photos- gumpyrevolution)

“And I’d Like to Thank…” The New Works of Philip Lumbang @ Dragatomi

Opening last Saturday at Sacramento’s premier toy/art gallery Dragatomi, “And I’d Like to Thank…” is the latest solo show by popular character illustrator Philip Lumbang. The LA based artist has gained a strong reputation through his cute yet mischievious animal creations in recent years, working with the likes of OBEY Giant’s Studio Number One, but it’s his signature bear characters (named ‘awesome bears’ by Philip’s loyal fans) that have really propelled his work to cult status.His latest exhibition features a series of paintings depicting the adorable bear as a number of pop culture icons, including Darth Maul, Yoda, Venom, and the Power Rangers. Created on 9″ x 12″ solid wood boards, using a mixture of acrylic and enamel paints, Lumbang has priced the pieces between $300 – $600 (almost affordable to us mere mortals!), with the 20 strong series available through Dragatomi after the event. Check out the link here to view an online catalog of the work, featuring prices and dimensions of all the paintings.

Various Awesome Bear Paintings, Mixed Media

Short documentary featuring Lumbang’s stint with Studio Number One

“And I’d Like to Thank…”

New Works by Philip Lumbang

Dragatomi Scramento, CA

8th October – 5th November, 2011

(photos- lumbang/toyzrevil)

Alex Pardee and Skinner aka The Butcher Kings @ Gallery 1988 18+

Joining forces back in the late 90’s through a mutual love of cult pop culture, famed artists Alex Pardee and Skinner have recently opened the doors to their latest show at Gallery 1988, entitled ‘The Butcher Kings’.

One of the Californian duos most anticipated exhibitions to date, ‘The Butcher Kings’ has been heralded as Gallery 1988’s “craziest show yet”, featuring well over 80 new yet affordable (between $300 – $1000) acrylic paintings and drawings from two of the most criminally warped minds in the low brow art scene.

Living and painting together for the past month, the pair’s body of work for the show twists, exploits and destroys our child hood memories and perceptions of existing pop culture icons, with the couple mutually drawing from various sources including Gary Larson’s ‘The Far Side’, Jack Kirby, Wheel of Fortune, Carrot Top, Robot Chicken and Aqua Teen Hunger Force to rib-aching effect.

Featuring the likes of Star Wars, Dr Who and even the controversial Human Centipede, each piece is weirder, sicker, and funnier than the last, bolstering Pardee and Skinner’s reputation as two of the scene’s leaders of (extremely!) low brow entertainment.

Unfortunately, most of the works have been kept under lock and key to anyone who cannot attend the exhibit (apart from the select few entries featured below), but luckily the pair have stated that they are set to release a limited number of books, featuring the 80+ pieces, in the coming weeks through Gallery 1988’s web store.

Fluke Skywalker – Krispie Centipede

Buffalo Bill & Ted – F*ck the Police – Captain Kirk Cobain

Dr Who Framed Rodger Rabbit – Fab Five Freddy

Truck Noris

OGAY – Rocky Dentist – Skulltron

Here, Alex explains the pair’s intentions for the project-

“We missed creating art with the sole purpose of making ourselves smile and laugh. We missed not caring if we “lose a follower” by confusing someone with a drawing of VIKKI from Small Wonder or offending someone with a drawing of a demonic dick if that dick was fun to draw. And trust us, dicks are fun to draw. And they’re hilarious.  So in an attempt to re-unite our fearlessness, and to simply have fun using our separate memories and inspirations as our tools, Skinner and I present to you, “THE BUTCHER KINGS”.

Using the existing pop culture icons that we adore, we imagined what would happen if all of a sudden the memories of every pop culture property had begun to be torn apart by an unknown force and, in order to save the memories from total eradication, had to be gathered, reassembled and possibly even pushed off of a cliff by someone who was goofy, cynical, socially inept and slightly insane. That person….is us. “

– Alex Pardee, Tumbrculosis blog

Burning Pikachu, from The Butcher Kings You Tube preview

Choosing not to reveal any of the pieces before the show’s opening last Thursday (October 6th), Pardee and Skinner instead released a collection of YouTube videos that are (amazingly) even weirder than the art itself! Check below for two of the saner examples from the series- be warned, viewing could leave you emotionally scarred for life!

The Butcher Kings You Tube Previews

The Butcher Kings- New Works from Alex Pardee and Skinner

Gallery 1988, Melrose Location (LA)

October 6th – 29th

Hours: Wed – Sun: 11 AM – 6 PM Monday & Tuesday: Closed

(photos via- geekyrant/gallery1988)

Uncovered: Ted Terranova’s Beautiful World of War- RIVET WARS

“Rivet Wars takes place in a world locked in a decades long battle. The inhabitants of the planet Rivet have divided themselves into two factions, the Allies and the Blight.

The Allies see themselves as fighting for the freedom of all Rivets. When the Blight began their attacks, the free nations of Rivet gathered their forces and formed an alliance to defeat the Blighter threat.

The Blight believe that the world of Rivet is theirs to rule by right. Blighters see themselves as Rivet’s chosen rulers. They will stop at nothing to crush any opposition to their plans to conquer all of Rivet.”

– Rivet Wars backstory

Envisaged by part time illustrator Ted Terranova, the beautifully cute world of Rivet Wars was created as a context in which to make toys, illustrate and tell stories. Growing out of his love for military design, the Rivet Wars project first came about through a sketch of a tank / robot Terranova posted on the legendary ToyBreak forum.

ToyBreak Tank / Robot Sketch

“Something about the tank I drew made me think that it needed a world to live in, someone to drive it, and someone for the tank to fight. I soon realized that I’d been drawing these things my whole life but now all those disparate ideas could find a focus in Rivet Wars.

I had begun to see that people online were making their own toys, their own graphic novels…their own stuff. So why not make my own toy of this tank? And some paintings, and maybe a poster, and some short stories and maybe a website…and so here we are.”

– Ted Terranova, Rivet Wars site

After garnering a huge amount of attention on the site, Terranova decided to take the idea one step further, creating a 3D CGI model of the tank, which was later printed in 3D. Happy with the final product, Terranova set about making molds of the figure, in which to cast a number of limited resin plastic toys.

Named the Allied Vert Tanks, the toys were individually bagged with signed header cards by the artist, and have been on sale since the beginning of August on the official Rivet Wars site for around $15 (sans p+p).

Allied Green Vert Tank

Allied Grunt Figures

Terranova has since gone on to develop a whole range of figures, with the Allied Grunt character becoming the latest to be transformed into stunning resin (also available through the site).

His biggest, and most ambitious project to date, comes in the form of the recently revealed Blighter Quad Slug; a four legged tank design that is set to come in at around 5 times the size of previous Rivet Wars releases. Terranova has just received 3D print outs of the beautifully detailed toy, so will be finishing the first initial casts some time soon- check the Rivet Wars site in coming weeks for release details / prices.

Blighter Quad Slug- 3D CGI mock-up

Blighter Quad Slug- 3D print-out

As well as his extensive range of toys, Terranova has also been hard at work fleshing out the rest of the Rivet Wars universe. Issue 1 of the comic mini-series has recently landed (pictured here), with more short stories to follow in the coming months. Terranova has also finished a series of water colours for the project, with his latest, depicting a female Allied Officer, now available to purchase through the Rivet Wars store here (see pictures at top of post).

Issue 1, Rivet Wars mini comic

With the rise in popularity over the last few months, Terranova has recently opened a fan art section to the site, featuring a range of customs, original sculpts and illustrations based on the Rivet Wars world. The stunning customs shown here are from up and coming artist / sculptor, Adam Pratt.

Custom Vert Tanks by Adam Pratt

We’ll be keeping a close eye on any developments in the world of Rivet Wars, with production photos of the highly anticipated Blighter Quad Slug hopefully dropping any day now. Check the site here for more information.

(photos- rivetwars)

Uncovered: The Custom Toys of Graffiti Artist HOAKSER

Based in Birmingham, full time graffiti artist, Hoakser, has gained a huge amount of attention in recent years for the wide and varied scope in which his art has been delivered. Primarily working with spray paints, Hoakser is a master in wild styles, dubs, hand styles and characters, with his creations featuring on walls, t-shirts, canvas work, magazines and one-off custom toy designs across the country.

Hoakser has worked for several major clients, including Raveology and The IRS, blending his love of old school graffiti, street and punk culture to create the beautifully witty art style that has garnered him so much attention.

Hoakser’s custom toy designs, in our opinion, are some of the biggest jewels in his crown; the latest CCTV custom Munny and Gundam Graffiti Bomber (both pictured) highlight the immense level of skill and attention to detail that’s lead to his name spreading like wild fire in the art toy industry.

Painted with a rusty metal finish, the 13cm tall Gundam custom replaces the robot’s original head with a New York fat cap. This ingenious one-off was available to purchase through Hoakser’s Big Cartel store for £29.99 plus p&p, but was quickly snapped up by the staff here at the Tru:Teknology Files the second we laid eyes on it! Fortunately, Hoakser has mentioned that he is open to making more in the future, so e-mail him directly here if your interested.

“This Gundam graff bomber was a self assembly figure on spruces, that I put together and slightly changed a while ago..He looked cool just undercoated in black, which is how he stayed until yesterday..Now with a rusty metal type paint job he looks ready to go bomb the system with his new york fatcap face.. Complete with a signed battle shield, this is a one off custom and my first one like it.. “

– Hoakser blog

Hoakser’s second new custom, the CCTV Munny, uses Kidrobot’s famed DIY toy to breathtaking effect. The suitably tarnished Munny features a CCTV camera for a head, replete with power cables and blinking lens. The one-off Munny custom will also be available through Hoakser’s BC store soon, so keep checking back regularly. The price for the toy is as yet unconfirmed.

“I handpainted him with acrylics, trying to make him look worn out from walkin the city streets.. I signed him, and put up my crew MDS which stands for many things.. a few of them “More Dedicated Studies” Most Dominant Style” in this case, with all the cameras around.. Most Dominant Speciez.”

– Hoakser talking to Toyz R Evil

Dunny Hatchet Custom, 2011

Blue Gangster Qee Custom, 2011 (available at Hoakser’s store for £110)

Mutated Mini-Munny Custom, 2011

Re-Cycled Can Project

As well as his awe inspiring custom art toys, Hoakser has also had commercial success through the on-going Re-cycled Can project. Using discarded spray cans as canvas’, Hoakser has created hundreds of mini works of art- their size and choice of materials making them accessible to even the poorest of art collectors.

Hoakser also offers a customisation service for his Re-cycled Can range, giving customers the chance to have their name, slogan or character realised in his beautifully old school technique at around £5.99 per can.

Re-cycled Can 2011 Designs (all)

Hoakser’s One-Off T-Shirt Designs

Hoakser has also built up a strong reputation for his jaw dropping t-shirt designs. Always one-off creations, Hoakser has produced shirts for the likes of In Graffiti We Trust, Headrush and Hug Life. Check his Etsy shop here for an extensive range of the latest tees.

(photos- HOAKSER)

Francesco De Molfetta’s Pop Fiction @ Toy Art Gallery

With Emilio Garcia’s “Brain Evolution” Group Custom Show drawing to a close, California based Toy Art Gallery are preparing for their latest show, a collaboration with Italian artist Francesco De Molfetta, set to drop later this month (October 14th). Entitled ‘Pop Fiction’, Molfetta’s exhibition will feature a host of new sculptures in his famed pop art style; questioning our overstimulated, material obsessed and complacent attitudes in modern society.

“Francesco De Molfetta was born in 1979, he lives and works in Milan, little Italy, Europe. Francesco’s art is bold and holds back no punches. When viewing his art, the observer is invited to closely examine his own fate and position in the cultural landscape. Does he transcend and reshape, or remain complacent and numb in a material-excessive and sensory-overstimulated world? One has to decide because Francesco’s art demands an answer.”

– Toy Art Gallery press

Unfortunately details on the exhibition still remain scarce, but we’ve included images below from Molfetta’s last major exhibition entitled New Idols, held at The Don Gallery, Milan. Opening last April, the show featured a host of famous figures in popular culture, reinterpreted in Molfetta’s witty, culturally conscious style. For more information on New Idols, check The Don Gallery’s web page here.

POP FICTION

New works by Francesco De Molfetta

October 14th – November 4th, 2011

Opening reception 7-11pm

(photos- TAG/thedongallery)

Vinti Andrews’ Nike Dog Sculptures

A graduate of the highly esteemed Central Saint Martins school of fashion and design, London based designer Vinti Andrews has garnered a huge amount of attention for her unique re-constructionist approach to fashion. Her most famous work has come from extensive collaborations with sports brand Nike, including 2008’s Vinti x Windrunner series (pictured below), but it’s Andrews’ latest project that’s bringing her beautifully eccentric style to the art mainstream.

The Nike Dog range features a series of beautifully made sculptures of five different dogs, each lovingly crafted using parts from some of Nike’s most iconic designs; with Sky Force ’88’s, Air Max 90’s and Dunk Low’s all featuring in their original early 90’s colour-ways.

The dogs are currently available through Japanese lifestyle site Beams for a cool $4,500 each. Check their page here for more information.

Each of the five dog sculptures encapsulate everything that make the original trainer designs great; the Sky Force’s black and white lining texture, the Dunk Low’s huge tongues and the Air Max’s legendary clashing colour pallet are all prominent.

Vinti Andrews x Nike Windrunner series

Andrews’ Vinti x Nike Windrunner project perfectly visualised her re-constructionist approach to fashion design. Using familiar 80’s inspired patterns and colours, coupled with an unorthodox choice of materials (largely consisting of 3M tape), Andrews’ Windrunners went on sale to huge critical acclaim. Released exclusively through Hong Kong based fashion store KNIQ, the collection sold out within days of it’s launch, making the Windrunners some of the most sought after Nike products of recent times.

(photos- beams)

DMS’ Dumny in Carbonite: A Dunny Bootleg

Having previously covered the bootleg toy art of both Killer Bootlegs and the legendary Suck Lord, our attention turns to Dan ‘DMS’ with the release of the latest edition in his series of toys.

Based on the iconic Star Wars scene in which Han solo is imprisoned in carbonite, DMS takes the original sculpts of well known art toys and re-casts them in a similar way to the original ‘Han Solo-in-carbonite’ vintage Kenner toy (a favourite source of influence for bootleg art, including Killer Bootlegs ‘Boba Fett’ variation, featured here). So far the notorious bootlegger has worked on a ‘Lunartik in a cup of tea’ variant (included in Lunartik’s Mini Tea Tour), and a Dunny edition (previously featuring in several Dunny custom exhibitions).

Lunartik ‘in a cup of tea’ in Carbonite

Dunny in Carbonite

The latest edition, personally sanctioned by the Suck Lord himself, is DMS’ first official realease, using a parody of Kidrobot’s iconic Dunny figurine, entitled ‘Dumny in carbonite’. Unlike the previous (unauthorised) releases in the series, the 4″ tall Dumny toy comes blister packaged, similar to the Suck Lord’s vast range of Star Wars bootlegs (including the incredible pink Gay Empire Storm Troopers).

Limited to an edition of 40 (with a number of them already reserved by the Suck Lord), the toy is now available through DMS’ web shop here for a limited time. Price for the exclusive figure is set at $50 (around £33), with world wide shipping included.

Custom Android

T42: Custom Lunartik ‘in a tea cup’

DMS’ Dunny Candles

Although now popular through his growing range of ‘carbonite’ bootlegs and custom toys, DMS first came to the attention of the art toy scene with his notorious Dunny Candle series. Featuring 1000 candle wax casts of the Dunny toy in various colours, shapes and sizes, DMS’ range was eventually authorised by Kidrobot to go on sale between 2008-09. Sold out some time ago, the various candles can still be viewed through DMS’ Flickr account here.

(photos- DMS)