Art Toy revolution
The crossover between art and toys is becoming ever closer. These art toys – or ‘urban vinyl’  as collectors call them are becoming more mainstream. Inspired by comics and graffiti they are the latest stylish accessory for your home. Although these toys started with Manga in Japan they now have a big UK following and are being developed by a number of UK artists.  

‘The “movement” is called urban vinyl’, says Mark, a collector from Chester. ‘I suppose the graphic artists who started it thought toys sounded too uncool. They are actually made out of hard pressed vinyl, which gives it a really nice tactile effect. I’ve been collecting about a year and a half, and mainly collect the small “Quee” figures. These are the Japanese key chains that started it all. They are basically key chains that come in three distinct templates – dog, bear and cat. They have also just introduced an egg design. Famous graphic artists are given these templates, and the results are always different.’

From £5 to thousands
The toys range hugely in price as Mark explains, ’they also come in 8 inch and 12 inch versions – the limited edition ones can go for more than a thousand pounds. The most expensive piece I have is an 8 inch which cost £45. I also have the Gorillaz figures on order – the full set is going to set me back about £150.’

There are even discussion forums online for the phenomenon, although Mark doesn’t use them: ‘My best friend got me into it, and he has quite a large collection, but I don’t think he has ever spent more than £50 on an individual piece.’

British movement
British illustrators are getting into the trend. Pete Fowler who has illustrated every album by the Super Furry Animals has now created a successful range of toys – Monsterism.

Jamie Hewlett the creator of British cult comic strip Tank Girl and the artist behind Gorillaz, has now also brought out the massively successful toy version of the band.

James Jarvis is one of the most familiar names to UK Enthusiasts creating the Silas and Maria toys. His toys range from King Ken – who is protecting his jungle – to figures that resemble heavy metal heroes and the kebab brothers and hot dog man!

For those of you who want your own piece of artwork this could be the affordable way – and it’s fun!

Bernie
July/August 2006

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