Different Types of Art Toys Explained
Art toys have emerged as a vibrant and innovative form of contemporary art, blurring the lines between toys and collectibles. For collectors and enthusiasts, understanding the different categories of art toys is essential for appreciating their artistic, cultural, and market value. This guide will walk you through the most notable types of art toys and their unique characteristics.
1. Limited Edition Toys
Limited edition art toys are some of the most sought-after pieces in the collectible world. These toys are produced in small quantities, often ranging from 10 to a few thousand pieces, and are usually numbered to indicate their exclusivity. Renowned brands such as Medicom Toy, the makers of Bearbrick, have popularized this category.
- Why Collect? Limited editions are prized for their scarcity and potential for value appreciation.
- Examples: Bearbrick collaborations with luxury brands like Chanel and artists like Kaws.
- Tip: Look for toys with certificates of authenticity to ensure they are genuine.
2. Designer Toys
Designer toys, also known as “art toys,” are created by artists and designers who bring their unique aesthetic to the medium. Unlike traditional toys, these are not mass-produced and often target an adult audience.
Popular brands like Kidrobot and Superplastic specialize in designer toys that explore themes ranging from urban street art to pop culture references.
- Materials: Typically made from vinyl, resin, or wood.
- Signature Series: Dunny and Janky figures are iconic examples of this category.
- Why Collect? Designer toys allow collectors to own miniature works of art.
3. Handmade and Custom Toys
Handmade art toys are often created by independent artists and are one-of-a-kind or produced in extremely limited runs. These toys showcase the artist's craftsmanship and creativity, making them unique additions to any collection.
- Appeal: These toys often feature hand-painted details and personalized touches.
- Examples: Custom-painted Dunnys or one-off sculptures by artists like Chris Ryniak.
- Where to Buy: Many artists sell directly through platforms like Etsy or their personal websites.
4. Collaborative Art Toys
Collaborations between artists and brands often result in groundbreaking designs that combine the creativity of the artist with the production capabilities of established companies. These toys frequently incorporate elements from multiple disciplines, such as fashion, music, and fine art.
- Iconic Examples: BAPE x Bearbrick, The Simpsons x Kidrobot, and Takashi Murakami’s Flower Figures.
- Market Value: Collaborative toys often become collector's items due to their crossover appeal.
- Tip: Stay updated on upcoming collaborations by following brands and artists on social media.
5. Art Toys Inspired by Japanese Kaiju and Sofubi
Japanese kaiju (monster) and sofubi (soft vinyl) toys are deeply rooted in Japanese pop culture. These toys are often handcrafted using traditional techniques and feature iconic characters from Japanese media, such as Godzilla or Ultraman.
- Material: Soft vinyl, known for its durability and vibrant colors.
- Why Collect? Kaiju toys blend nostalgia with artistry, appealing to fans of Japanese culture.
- Where to Buy: Look for kaiju toys at specialty shops or events like Sofubi Festival.
6. Urban and Pop Culture Art Toys
Urban art toys often draw inspiration from graffiti, hip-hop, and street culture. These toys resonate with younger collectors who are familiar with the cultural references embedded in the designs. Similarly, pop culture art toys reinterpret iconic characters or moments from movies, television, and video games.
- Examples: Toys based on Marvel or DC Comics characters, or figures inspired by Banksy’s artwork.
- Brands to Explore: Funko, Mighty Jaxx.
Conclusion
The world of art toys is vast and diverse, offering something for every collector. Whether you're drawn to limited editions, handcrafted pieces, or collaborative works, each type of art toy tells a story and reflects the creativity of its maker. As a collector, exploring these categories can help you build a collection that is both meaningful and valuable.