Art Toys: A Revolution in Miniature (Part 1)

Hey friend, ever wondered if something could be both a toy and a piece of art? Prepare to have your mind blown because Art Toys exist, and they’re way cooler than you might think. This is the first of a three-part series exploring this fascinating world, so buckle up!

Think vibrant colours, quirky designs, and collectible figures that blur the lines between childhood nostalgia and sophisticated artistry. We’re talking about Art Toys – designer toys created by artists often hailing from street art, animation, graphic design, anime, and manga backgrounds. These aren’t your average mass-produced plastic dolls; they’re miniature masterpieces.

This craze isn’t just for kids; it’s fueled by “kidults”—grown-ups who embrace the playful aesthetic and often the deeper meaning behind these collectible figures. Many Art Toys pack humour, irony, and even social commentary into their seemingly simple forms. And the best part? There’s something for every budget, from a few euros to pieces worth thousands!

So, where did this all begin? In the mid-90s, Hong Kong became the birthplace of Art Toys, largely thanks to Michael Lau, often considered the movement’s godfather. His use of vinyl to create limited-edition toys paved the way. Medicom Toy, a Japanese company, also played a crucial role, specializing in producing and selling these artist-created collectibles. Suddenly, the toy world intersected with the art world, creating a whole new playing field.

This opened doors for urban artists to reach new audiences and experiment with a novel medium. Iconic artists like KAWS (with his “Companion”), Takashi Murakami (“Miss Ko2”), and Ron English (“MC Supersized”) emerged, creating pieces that have become highly sought-after and incredibly valuable. Some of these works, barely two decades old, are now fetching prices that would make your jaw drop – even shattering auction records!

Art Toys have become a genuine artistic revolution, bridging the gap between art and commerce. Artists have built instantly recognizable brands, expanding beyond the art world into retail, music, and even the food industry. Celebrities like Pharrell Williams, a passionate Art Toy collector, have even curated exhibitions showcasing these miniature marvels (like “This Is Not A Toy” in Toronto).

The rise of Art Toys is undeniably impressive. But the question remains: is this a fleeting fad, or a lasting influence on the art world? Only time will tell. For now, we’re diving headfirst into this vibrant world of miniature fantasies. Check out some of our favourites in our LAB!

*Cover photo: Salvator Michael “2020” – Michael Lau. Source: @michaellau.

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