DESIGN /
FEATURES
July 30, 2020
Focusing on the "Art Toys at Home" trend spreading on Instagram (Part 2)
MEDICOM TOY | MEDICOM TOY
Text & Edit by KAWASE Takuro
The "Art Toys at Home" project, launched at the call of Medicom Toy and OPENERS. OPENERS selected posts from prominent figures active in various fields among the many submissions to Instagram during the period of staying at home. We introduce them with messages from the time of the pandemic.
Although we are gradually returning to our daily lives, our routines have undergone significant changes. While many people are finding creative ways to spend their time at home, the SNS project "Art Toys at Home" was launched for fans enjoying their time at home with art toys.
From the launch on May 1st until the state of emergency was lifted, numerous posts were submitted on Instagram. The submissions ranged from displays of favorite collections lined up, to art toys seamlessly integrated into interior design, and recreations of humorous miniature worlds. The variety in display and photography techniques was remarkable, with a quality that truly captivated the viewer.
Following the first part, which introduced 17 carefully selected pieces from submissions worldwide by the OPENERS editorial department, this second part features selections from prominent figures and artists active in various fields, also chosen by the OPENERS editorial department. We individually requested follow-up interviews via email, and received comments about their favorite art toys and their thoughts on the future world coexisting with COVID-19.
Ryuhiko Akashi, President and CEO of Medicom Toy
“Let’s do our best for the future! Gratitude to all those who protect our lives and livelihoods.”
Topping the feature is Mr. Akashi, President and CEO of Medicom Toy, and one of the initiators of this project. He submitted "Sculptor Doraemon," a piece that captivates not only fans but anyone who sees it. This character from the future, loved by all ages and genders, brings a smile and a positive feeling just by looking at it.
Q1. Please tell us what you like about the art toy you submitted and any memories associated with it.
Sculptor Doraemon is one of the Doraemon series I most wanted to see in three dimensions. (Following Doraemon, the Helbancr I posted) is a masterpiece that will resonate deeply with those who shared that era. For the third, A Clockwork Orange (MAFEX ALEX), it took 20 years to bring it to market.
Sculptor Doraemon is one of the Doraemon series I most wanted to see in three dimensions. (Following Doraemon, the Helbancr I posted) is a masterpiece that will resonate deeply with those who shared that era. For the third, A Clockwork Orange (MAFEX ALEX), it took 20 years to bring it to market.
Q2. How do you usually display your art toys?
Rather than displaying them neatly, I tend to place them somewhat haphazardly so I can touch and look at them occasionally. They also serve strongly as tools to evoke memories and ideas.
Rather than displaying them neatly, I tend to place them somewhat haphazardly so I can touch and look at them occasionally. They also serve strongly as tools to evoke memories and ideas.
Q3. Please share your thoughts on the future of coexistence with COVID-19.
Humans will be alright in any era. I believe external pressures will create an even better future.
Humans will be alright in any era. I believe external pressures will create an even better future.
Fashion Director Poggy Motofumi KOGI
“I want to enjoy my time at home and in the office more. I expect my time spent with toys will increase.”
Here are the art toys selected by KOGI, familiar from POGGY’S FILTER. From right: "Astro Boy AMBUSH" (2020, released in a limited edition of 55 units), "SORAYAMA SEXY ROBOT BE@RBRICK 1000%" (released January 2018), and "Sofubi Desu Godzi NAGNAGNAG" (2019, a one-off item sold by lottery at MEDICOM TOY PLUS). He has curated art toys that bridge culture and fashion.
Q1. Please tell us what you like about the art toy you submitted and any memories associated with it.
I like that all the art toys I chose share a common thread of Japan, whether it's a special order from a Japanese brand, a Japanese artist like Sorayama, or a Japanese anime. That's what I find appealing.
I like that all the art toys I chose share a common thread of Japan, whether it's a special order from a Japanese brand, a Japanese artist like Sorayama, or a Japanese anime. That's what I find appealing.
Q2. How do you usually display your art toys?
It's interesting how changing the placement slightly, or considering the colors of surrounding toys and the story behind the piece, can alter its impression. I enjoy arranging them, much like coordinating an outfit, and deciding if it feels right.
It's interesting how changing the placement slightly, or considering the colors of surrounding toys and the story behind the piece, can alter its impression. I enjoy arranging them, much like coordinating an outfit, and deciding if it feels right.
Q3. Please share your thoughts on the future of coexistence with COVID-19.
To be honest, I dedicated myself solely to fashion until I was 40. That was good in its own way, and I have no regrets. During the lockdown, I spent all my time at home and found myself interacting with art toys more. For many men, being able to enjoy things they loved as children in a different form is, though hard to put into words, a very happy experience.
To be honest, I dedicated myself solely to fashion until I was 40. That was good in its own way, and I have no regrets. During the lockdown, I spent all my time at home and found myself interacting with art toys more. For many men, being able to enjoy things they loved as children in a different form is, though hard to put into words, a very happy experience.
Profile
Born in Sapporo in 1976. Joined United Arrows in 1997 and became its PR in 2002. Launched Liquor, Woman & Tears in 2006 and served as its director. Became a buyer in 2010 and launched United Arrows & Sons. Went independent in 2019 and has since been involved in various projects and directing, including 2G in Shibuya Parco.
Born in Sapporo in 1976. Joined United Arrows in 1997 and became its PR in 2002. Launched Liquor, Woman & Tears in 2006 and served as its director. Became a buyer in 2010 and launched United Arrows & Sons. Went independent in 2019 and has since been involved in various projects and directing, including 2G in Shibuya Parco.
Actress Megumi KOBASHI
“While being mindful of social distancing, let our hearts be close. May the future be gentle and bright!”
Ms. Kobashi, also known as a book lover, is a huge fan of Bearbrick. The panda with a heart mark on the left of the photo she submitted is "Rune Panda" from BE@RBRICK SERIES 23 (released in 2011). The original is a character by artist Rune Naito, who created the prototype for Japan's unique "Kawaii" culture that has spread worldwide. On the right is "PATTERN" from BE@RBRICK SERIES 20 (released in 2010), created by the NY fashion brand SSUR.
Q1. Please tell us what you like about the art toy you submitted and any memories associated with it.
Even with the same shape and size, they have such diverse expressions, making me want to collect more and more. The photo shows some of my favorites. The Bear on the far right was obtained by a friend from a blind box. I wanted it so badly that I begged them to give it to me.
Even with the same shape and size, they have such diverse expressions, making me want to collect more and more. The photo shows some of my favorites. The Bear on the far right was obtained by a friend from a blind box. I wanted it so badly that I begged them to give it to me.
Q2. How do you usually display your art toys?
We have many Bearbricks at home, and when small children visit, they play with them as if they were dolls. Depending on the season, I also change the Bearbricks on display.
We have many Bearbricks at home, and when small children visit, they play with them as if they were dolls. Depending on the season, I also change the Bearbricks on display.
Q3. Please share your thoughts on the future of coexistence with COVID-19.
Although there may be many things that confuse us, I hope to live in this new era with a sense of openness, by pausing and thinking carefully each time.
Although there may be many things that confuse us, I hope to live in this new era with a sense of openness, by pausing and thinking carefully each time.
Profile
Born in Tokyo in 1979. Her representative works include the films "Bayside Shakedown THE FINAL: A New Hope" and "The Body: To Tomorrow," the TBS Monday Golden drama series "Inspector Kariya," and the BS Fuji series "Metropolitan Police Department Investigation Data Management Office." She is also known as an avid reader, with a large following for her book and film reviews. Her essays, serialized in an e-book literary magazine, have been published as a book.
Born in Tokyo in 1979. Her representative works include the films "Bayside Shakedown THE FINAL: A New Hope" and "The Body: To Tomorrow," the TBS Monday Golden drama series "Inspector Kariya," and the BS Fuji series "Metropolitan Police Department Investigation Data Management Office." She is also known as an avid reader, with a large following for her book and film reviews. Her essays, serialized in an e-book literary magazine, have been published as a book.
MAISON MIHARA YASUHIRO Designer Yasuhiro MIHARA
“Medicom Toy's creations blend into daily life; many exist not only at home but also in my atelier.”
"Maison Mihara Yasuhiro," known for its sneakers and the mysterious character "Kutsuhimo Musubenai Kimi" (You Who Can't Tie Shoelaces), has opened a new store in Jingumae, Tokyo, generating considerable buzz. Designer Mihara submitted a BE@RBRICK 1000% of unknown origin, displayed alongside an unused blank deck. Its charm lies in the black leather casually tied like a neckerchief around its plain white body.
Q1. Please tell us what you like about the art toy you submitted and any memories associated with it.
It blends into my daily life. My daily life is dominated by new and old things, art pieces, and junk clutter.
It blends into my daily life. My daily life is dominated by new and old things, art pieces, and junk clutter.
Q2. How do you usually display your art toys?
Very naturally, as if they have their own personalities. Medicom Toy's creations are not only at my home but also in my atelier.
Very naturally, as if they have their own personalities. Medicom Toy's creations are not only at my home but also in my atelier.
Q3. Please share your thoughts on the future of coexistence with COVID-19.
I can't quite articulate it, but there are many things beyond human measurement. And we should know that even solutions are not the true answers. Because there are no answers.
I can't quite articulate it, but there are many things beyond human measurement. And we should know that even solutions are not the true answers. Because there are no answers.
Profile
Born in Nagasaki Prefecture in 1972. While studying at Tama Art University, he began making shoes independently, which garnered significant attention. In 1997, he launched his shoe brand. Since then, he has expanded to handle total looks for men and women, presenting collections in Milan, Paris, London, and Tokyo, earning high acclaim both domestically and internationally. He is one of Japan's leading fashion designers.
Born in Nagasaki Prefecture in 1972. While studying at Tama Art University, he began making shoes independently, which garnered significant attention. In 1997, he launched his shoe brand. Since then, he has expanded to handle total looks for men and women, presenting collections in Milan, Paris, London, and Tokyo, earning high acclaim both domestically and internationally. He is one of Japan's leading fashion designers.
Medicom Toy Vice President Izumi SUGA
“Whatever the environmental changes, I hope for a future where everyone can smile.”
The submission from Ms. Suga, Vice President of Medicom Toy, features her beloved cat Bonjure with "KAWS BFF OPEN EDITION BLUE / PINK / BLACK" (sold at MEDICOM TOY PLUS in 2017). The sight of her cat relaxing on a table made of reclaimed wood is truly heartwarming. She lives with four cats – Merci, Bebe, and the new addition Mimi – and has frequently appeared with art toys since this submission, showcasing their adorable expressions.
Q1. Please tell us what you like about the art toy you submitted and any memories associated with it.
Brian was special even before he became this renowned. It all started over 20 years ago when I bought a "KAWS" book at a shop called ZAKKA in NY.
Eventually, we connected through work, created OriginalFake together, became good friends, and I've always loved his art and figures.
I particularly like these ones. There are many, but I chose these simple ones this time.
Brian was special even before he became this renowned. It all started over 20 years ago when I bought a "KAWS" book at a shop called ZAKKA in NY.
Eventually, we connected through work, created OriginalFake together, became good friends, and I've always loved his art and figures.
I particularly like these ones. There are many, but I chose these simple ones this time.
Q2. How do you usually display your art toys?
It varies: some are moved around depending on my mood, while others stay in place permanently. Sometimes I even carry them with me. Rather than displaying them, they are integrated into my life, work, and (life, haha).
It varies: some are moved around depending on my mood, while others stay in place permanently. Sometimes I even carry them with me. Rather than displaying them, they are integrated into my life, work, and (life, haha).
Q.3 Please share your thoughts on the future of coexistence with COVID-19.
I'm not sure what form the coronavirus will take in the future, but I believe it's important to observe it carefully, think about it, and direct our consciousness towards the same goal as much as possible.
Whatever the changes, I hope for a future where everyone can smile.
I'm not sure what form the coronavirus will take in the future, but I believe it's important to observe it carefully, think about it, and direct our consciousness towards the same goal as much as possible.
Whatever the changes, I hope for a future where everyone can smile.
MEDICOM TOY INC.
Izumi SUGA, Director and Vice President
Founded Medicom Toy in 1996 with partner and President Ryuhiko Akashi.
With the concept of "creating what we want, not developing products based on marketing,"
the company plans and manufactures character figures from a wide range of fields, including movies, TV, comics, and games.
In 2001, they released "BE@RBRICK" (Bearbrick) and have since collaborated with numerous artists, brands, and companies both domestically and internationally. They also operate diverse businesses, including the textile brand "FABRICK®."
Their retail stores include the street store "project 1/6" in Shibuya, the flagship store "Soramachi®" within Tokyo Skytree Town®, "MEDICOM TOY PLUS" in Omotesando Hills, and in November 2019, they opened "2G," a studio by NANZUKA gallery, Poggy, and Medicom Toy, in the newly renovated Shibuya Parco.
Next year, 2021, marks Medicom Toy's 25th anniversary.
Izumi SUGA, Director and Vice President
Founded Medicom Toy in 1996 with partner and President Ryuhiko Akashi.
With the concept of "creating what we want, not developing products based on marketing,"
the company plans and manufactures character figures from a wide range of fields, including movies, TV, comics, and games.
In 2001, they released "BE@RBRICK" (Bearbrick) and have since collaborated with numerous artists, brands, and companies both domestically and internationally. They also operate diverse businesses, including the textile brand "FABRICK®."
Their retail stores include the street store "project 1/6" in Shibuya, the flagship store "Soramachi®" within Tokyo Skytree Town®, "MEDICOM TOY PLUS" in Omotesando Hills, and in November 2019, they opened "2G," a studio by NANZUKA gallery, Poggy, and Medicom Toy, in the newly renovated Shibuya Parco.
Next year, 2021, marks Medicom Toy's 25th anniversary.
ALWAYS OUT OF STOCK Founder/Director KING MASA
“In these difficult times, I want to become a person who can thrive in a new society while supporting family and friends.”
Mr. MASA, known as a leading sneaker collector in Japan, is also a huge fan and collector of KAWS. His collection features a wide array of KAWS items, including BE@RBRICK, "KAWS MILO," and "ASTRO BOY (KAWS version)" (all released exclusively through OriginalFake or MEDICOM TOY PLUS). In addition to this submission, he has shared many art toys alongside his rare and favorite sneakers.
Q1. Please tell us what you like about the art toy you submitted and any memories associated with it.
I've loved and collected KAWS works and Bearbricks since long ago. I love the world KAWS creates, and even now, when a release date approaches, I wait by my computer to purchase them.
I've loved and collected KAWS works and Bearbricks since long ago. I love the world KAWS creates, and even now, when a release date approaches, I wait by my computer to purchase them.
Q2. How do you usually display your art toys?
Since I also collect sneakers, I keep them in a dedicated room, neatly displayed in their boxes.
Since I also collect sneakers, I keep them in a dedicated room, neatly displayed in their boxes.
Q3. Please share your thoughts on the future of coexistence with COVID-19.
I believe this pandemic will drastically change society. It will likely become even more of an online society than before.
I believe this pandemic will drastically change society. It will likely become even more of an online society than before.
Profile
Born in Kyoto Prefecture. Moved abroad during high school. After graduating from UCLA, he established a trading company in L.A. While managing his company, he ran a blog distributing information on street fashion and sneakers. In 2016, he founded ALWAYS OUT OF STOCK with the concept of "Luxury & Street." He has authored several books on sneakers and is known as the King of Sneaker Collectors.
Born in Kyoto Prefecture. Moved abroad during high school. After graduating from UCLA, he established a trading company in L.A. While managing his company, he ran a blog distributing information on street fashion and sneakers. In 2016, he founded ALWAYS OUT OF STOCK with the concept of "Luxury & Street." He has authored several books on sneakers and is known as the King of Sneaker Collectors.
Contemporary Artist Yasuto SASADA
“I see this as a valuable opportunity to consider how to resonate with people's hearts, and I will continue to strive forward.”
Mr. Sasada, a contemporary artist, also submitted a piece. This is "BE@RBRICK Yasuto Sasada 100% & 400%," released in 2017 to commemorate the first anniversary of MEDICOM TOY PLUS, displayed in a way that links with his own artwork. The mysterious world, rendered in vibrant colors, is truly captivating. Although direct engagement with art has significantly decreased during the lockdown, he is one of the artists whose future activities we eagerly anticipate.
Q1. Please tell us what you like about the art toy you submitted and any memories associated with it.
“The peacock using the Seigaiha pattern is a motif I've been drawing since I was a student, and I am very grateful to have been able to express that cherished work through Bearbrick. Because it's a water print, each piece has its own individuality, and I really like that no two are exactly alike.”
“The peacock using the Seigaiha pattern is a motif I've been drawing since I was a student, and I am very grateful to have been able to express that cherished work through Bearbrick. Because it's a water print, each piece has its own individuality, and I really like that no two are exactly alike.”
Q2. How do you usually display your art toys?
“I often display them in front of my artworks. Depending on my mood, I change the background artwork. I also drew the package design specifically for this Bearbrick, so it has a strong affinity and I display them together.”
“I often display them in front of my artworks. Depending on my mood, I change the background artwork. I also drew the package design specifically for this Bearbrick, so it has a strong affinity and I display them together.”
Q3. Please share your thoughts on the future of coexistence with COVID-19.
“Artworks can reach people's eyes and touch their hearts not only when seen in person but also by changing the method of expression and presentation. (The current situation for art amidst COVID-19) is an opportunity that makes me consider those methods, and I will continue to strive forward.”
“Artworks can reach people's eyes and touch their hearts not only when seen in person but also by changing the method of expression and presentation. (The current situation for art amidst COVID-19) is an opportunity that makes me consider those methods, and I will continue to strive forward.”
Profile
Born in Okayama Prefecture in 1985. A contemporary artist who creates intricate drawings using a 0.3mm pen. Not confined to being just a painter, he collaborated with the fashion brand Yohji Yamamoto, creating a global sensation. The "BE@RBRICK Yasuto Sasada 100% & 400%" released in 2017 sold out on the same day. He has numerous projects planned on a global scale.
Born in Okayama Prefecture in 1985. A contemporary artist who creates intricate drawings using a 0.3mm pen. Not confined to being just a painter, he collaborated with the fashion brand Yohji Yamamoto, creating a global sensation. The "BE@RBRICK Yasuto Sasada 100% & 400%" released in 2017 sold out on the same day. He has numerous projects planned on a global scale.
Comedy Duo SISSONNE, Shinobu HASEGAWA
“Instead of being pessimistic, let's take this as a good opportunity to challenge ourselves with what we can do now.”
We also received a submission from Mr. Hasegawa, active as a comedian. From the left in the photo: "B-GIRL Down Jacket NAGAME" (2019, commemorative edition for TAKU OBATA's exhibition "Scenery Beyond" at the Watari Museum of Contemporary Art), and "KAWS COMPANION (FLAYED) OPEN EDITION" (PINK released in 2017, BLACK, GRAY, and BROWN released in 2016). This reaffirms KAWS's high popularity as a representative figure in art toys.
Q1. Please tell us what you like about the art toy you submitted and any memories associated with it.
As someone who grew up right in the middle of the Ura-Harajuku generation, I have strong feelings for KAWS. Back then, I didn't have money to buy them... Even when opportunities arose, I had to give up due to lack of funds. Later, their popularity soared, making them even harder to obtain, plunging me into a KAWS hell loop. Finally, I managed to bring them into my home through a reissue. Therefore, these figures are precious to me. I've never actually done this, but... (laughs)
As someone who grew up right in the middle of the Ura-Harajuku generation, I have strong feelings for KAWS. Back then, I didn't have money to buy them... Even when opportunities arose, I had to give up due to lack of funds. Later, their popularity soared, making them even harder to obtain, plunging me into a KAWS hell loop. Finally, I managed to bring them into my home through a reissue. Therefore, these figures are precious to me. I've never actually done this, but... (laughs)
Q2. How do you usually display your art toys?
When guests visit, I display them in places where they are easily visible but not overly prominent. I also enjoy changing the lineup about once a month.
When guests visit, I display them in places where they are easily visible but not overly prominent. I also enjoy changing the lineup about once a month.
Q3. Please share your thoughts on the future of coexistence with COVID-19.
I try to see this as a good opportunity to challenge myself with what I can do now, rather than being pessimistic. While wishing for the pandemic to end, I would be happy to discover a new version of myself.
I try to see this as a good opportunity to challenge myself with what I can do now, rather than being pessimistic. While wishing for the pandemic to end, I would be happy to discover a new version of myself.
Profile
Born in Shizuoka Prefecture in 1978. Joined NSC Tokyo in 2005. In April 2006, he formed a duo with Jirou, also from NSC Tokyo's 11th class, and primarily handles the tsukkomi (straight man) role. They entered "King of Conte" in 2008 and became champions in the 7th competition in 2014. Their solo live shows are highly popular. He is a huge fashion enthusiast and also a collector of comic figures.
Born in Shizuoka Prefecture in 1978. Joined NSC Tokyo in 2005. In April 2006, he formed a duo with Jirou, also from NSC Tokyo's 11th class, and primarily handles the tsukkomi (straight man) role. They entered "King of Conte" in 2008 and became champions in the 7th competition in 2014. Their solo live shows are highly popular. He is a huge fashion enthusiast and also a collector of comic figures.
Wire Artist Manabu OGAWA (HAyU)
“Rather than complaining about needing to change, it's more fun to think about the new possibilities.”
Mr. Manabu Ogawa, a wire artist who shapes various animals and figures with expressive faces by freely bending a single wire, also submitted a piece. His unique style, where line drawings seem to come to life, is evident in this submission. He combined a wire art piece of Keith Haring, who appears ready to spring into action with a spray can in hand, with a BE@RBRICK KEITH HARING 100% / 400%. It conveys respect and love for both Keith Haring and Bearbrick.
Q1. Please tell us what you like about the art toy you submitted and any memories associated with it.
Keith has been a favorite artist of mine for a long time. Among Medicom Toy's art toys, I particularly love the Chogokin series. For artists creating art toys, especially Bearbrick, they are a special canvas. They represent status and are something to aspire to.
Keith has been a favorite artist of mine for a long time. Among Medicom Toy's art toys, I particularly love the Chogokin series. For artists creating art toys, especially Bearbrick, they are a special canvas. They represent status and are something to aspire to.
Q2. How do you usually display your art toys?
I often display them alongside my beloved plants and my own wire creations. Sometimes my children play with them as toys.
I often display them alongside my beloved plants and my own wire creations. Sometimes my children play with them as toys.
Q3. Please share your thoughts on the future of coexistence with COVID-19.
I'm not an expert, so I don't really know... If lifestyles or something else drastically changes, I think it's more fun to think about the new things we can do rather than complaining about having to change. As I'm rather lazy myself, I'll do my best.
I'm not an expert, so I don't really know... If lifestyles or something else drastically changes, I think it's more fun to think about the new things we can do rather than complaining about having to change. As I'm rather lazy myself, I'll do my best.
Profile
Born in Ibaraki Prefecture in 1976. Began creating wire art in 2015, developing a unique style of wire animal heads. Debuted as an artist at the Aoyama-Sando Art Fair in 2017. Currently active in a wide range of fields, including displays for hotel lobbies and public facilities, public art, providing works for famous musicians' CD jackets, and textile design.
Born in Ibaraki Prefecture in 1976. Began creating wire art in 2015, developing a unique style of wire animal heads. Debuted as an artist at the Aoyama-Sando Art Fair in 2017. Currently active in a wide range of fields, including displays for hotel lobbies and public facilities, public art, providing works for famous musicians' CD jackets, and textile design.
Web Magazine OPENERS General Director Hiroyuki MATSUMOTO
“In any era, in any situation, the world evolves and creates. Therefore, Every day is a new day!”
Concluding this feature is Mr. Matsumoto, President of OPENERS, who has a long-standing relationship with Medicom Toy. From his extensive collection, he selected "BE@RBRICK 400% MICEY MOUSE (Chicken Little Ver.)," released in 2011 at CLOT in Taiwan, combined with playing cards for a dynamic submission. He also displays them intertwined with his favorite silk screen works and posters by the beloved Tadanori Yokoo, as well as alongside photographic works.
Q1. Please tell us what you like about the art toy you submitted and any memories associated with it.
It has the shape of a bear, yet possesses artistic qualities; it has artistic qualities, yet it's bear-shaped. It seems inorganic, yet it's strangely endearing. The design and size, created with exquisite balance, possess a timeless newness that makes it one of the works that even famous artists now aspire to create.
It has the shape of a bear, yet possesses artistic qualities; it has artistic qualities, yet it's bear-shaped. It seems inorganic, yet it's strangely endearing. The design and size, created with exquisite balance, possess a timeless newness that makes it one of the works that even famous artists now aspire to create.
Q2. How do you usually display your art toys?
I pay attention as new series by surprising artists and musicians are released one after another. In my home, toys are placed in various locations: the entrance, hallway, living room, and bathroom.
I pay attention as new series by surprising artists and musicians are released one after another. In my home, toys are placed in various locations: the entrance, hallway, living room, and bathroom.
Q3. Please share your thoughts on the future of coexistence with COVID-19.
Although we are still in uncertain times due to COVID-19, I wish Japanese politicians would speak with pride about the importance of culture, such as domestic crafts and art, just as the German Chancellor and ministers do.
Although we are still in uncertain times due to COVID-19, I wish Japanese politicians would speak with pride about the importance of culture, such as domestic crafts and art, just as the German Chancellor and ministers do.
Profile
Independent since 2005 from a publishing company that issued magazines like Mono Magazine and Chrome Hearts Magazine, as well as special feature mooks. Since then, while continuing publishing work, he served as a producer for community radio and handled product development and marketing for several brands, before participating in the launch of the web magazine "OPENERS." In 2017, he became an executive at Smart Media and the General Director of OPENERS. Leveraging his extensive network, he is involved in various projects and collaborations.
Independent since 2005 from a publishing company that issued magazines like Mono Magazine and Chrome Hearts Magazine, as well as special feature mooks. Since then, while continuing publishing work, he served as a producer for community radio and handled product development and marketing for several brands, before participating in the launch of the web magazine "OPENERS." In 2017, he became an executive at Smart Media and the General Director of OPENERS. Leveraging his extensive network, he is involved in various projects and collaborations.
Ryuhiko Akashi, President and CEO
Born in Tokyo. Founded Medicom Toy in 1996.
With the concept of "creating what we want, not developing products based on marketing,"
the company plans and manufactures character figures from a wide range of fields, including movies, TV, comics, and games.
In 2001, they released "BE@RBRICK" (Bearbrick) and have since collaborated with numerous artists, brands, and companies both domestically and internationally. They also operate diverse businesses, including the textile brand "FABRICK®."
Their retail stores include the street store "project1/6" in Shibuya, the flagship store "Soramachi®" within Tokyo Skytree Town®, "MEDICOM TOY PLUS" in Omotesando Hills, and in November 2019, they opened "2G," a studio by NANZUKA gallery, Poggy, and Medicom Toy, in the newly renovated Shibuya Parco.
Next year, 2021, marks Medicom Toy's 25th anniversary.