Friday, 29 April 2016

Monsters and Misfits

A PLACE WHERE CREATURES AND TOYS EXIST AS ART.
The context of an exhibition space is usually resigned for FINE ART, but there is a place where these new and unconventional forms of art - toy art, art dolls and action figures - are appreciated as real works of art.
I didn't think there was such a place, that there was such a demand and expanse of these 'products'.
But there is and people travel so far to go and see the collections. The exhibition is in Japan, yet it features artists from all over the world. Is Japan the epicentre of art dolls? Why does Japan value them so much when the artists over here are underrated/unknown?

Where has this trend come from?
'The current and growing fascination with vintage toys and dolls in particular is linked to a number of trends - the celebration of childlike curiosity, the desire to collect, and the present fashion for all things retro. Designers are also incorporating their own contemporary ‘toys’ and doll-like creations into works of art, furniture and clothing. Perhaps this also has something to do with a mood of introspection and the contemplation and/or expression of our sense of identity?' 
http://www.shopcurious.com/curious-trends/Dolls-and-toys-in-decorative-art-and-design.aspx
But it's not just vintage, it's futuristic and NEW art toys, works of art made for enthusiasts and collectors rather than children.


The term 'OOAK' (one of a kind) is a large part of the art doll industry. Since these toys are made by independent artists, each doll is completely unique, meaning that the price tags can be quite hefty. Consumers treasure limited edition, one-off pieces that no-one else will have and the chance that these toys will only grow in value over time.
Perhaps this is why they exist as exhibition pieces and people pay to go and view them.




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