From Anne-Valérie Dupond, who has created the one-of-a-kind "ONE OF KIND BE@RBRICK" series using handmade techniques, comes a BE@RBRICK inspired by the king of beasts, the lion. To commemorate this, we conducted an email interview to delve into her thoughts on the finished product and the source of her creativity.

Anne-Valérie Dupond is a globally active French textile sculptor. Her collaboration series with Medicom Toy, "ONE OF KIND BE@RBRICK," which features handmade, one-of-a-kind animal figures crafted from fabric, began in 2019. She is an artist highly popular in Japan.

To celebrate the release of the "BE@RBRICK Anne Valérie Dupond LION (BWWT 3) 1000%," a commemorative product from BE@RBRICK WORLD WIDE TOUR 3 in SHANGHAI held in Shanghai, China this June, OPENERS conducted an email interview with her for the first time in four years. We focused on the production story behind the BE@RBRICK inspired by the king of beasts, the lion, and asked about her relationship with Medicom Toy, who faithfully recreated her work, and her recent activities over the past four years.

Anne Valérie Dupond
A globally active French textile sculptor. She studied at Marc Bloch University in Strasbourg, France, and earned her Master's degree in Fine Arts in 2020. Since 2001, she has been active in galleries in France, the United States, and Japan. She has worked on notable projects with brands such as UNDERCOVER, KENZO, Le Printemps, Comme des Garçons, and Y's.

— This is your first appearance on OPENERS sinceour email interview in February 2020. Last time, we discussed your journey to becoming an artist and how creating stuffed animals was the beginning of your artistic expression. Four years have passed since then; could you tell us about your creative activities during this period?

Anne Valérie Dupond (hereinafter, Anne)These past four years have been filled with opportunities for solo exhibitions and collaborations. Each project has led me into new artistic territories, expanding my perspectives and the scope of my work. With the collaboration project "Flowers" alongside Sarah Finchley, and the solo exhibition at Gallery de Room 702, I've had the chance to explore many new themes. However, I've always strived to remain true to the materials and inspirations I love. And, fortunately, over these four years, I've been able to create many new BE@RBRICKs. This challenge is incredibly enjoyable and something I cherish.

— In your collaborations with MEDICOM TOY, you've produced many one-of-a-kind "ONE OF KIND BE@RBRICK 1000%" pieces by hand. Some are based on real animals, while others are imaginary. How do you decide on the motifs? We'd love to know the source of your ideas.

AnneThe creation of a new BE@RBRICK depends on my mood that day. Just as when I began my artistic journey 24 years ago, I feel the need to return to the world of animals or to bring new ones into existence. That world is a safe place, very comfortable. I feel the same joy when surrounded by new animal families as I did when I was a child, surrounded by stuffed animals that brought me comfort.

At the same time, I also feel a boldness in challenging myself with new works, pushing forward, and stepping outside my comfort zone, but always with a sense of playfulness. Since starting my artistic career, I've valued using vintage fabrics and recycled materials. Every fabric I use in my work has a story, is filled with soul, and I love the idea of giving them a second life.
That's why I often visit flea markets, and sometimes I find inspiration in materials and colors to create new works. The tone of a BE@RBRICK series can even be determined by a fabric I discover by chance.

— Compared to your earlier works, your recent "ONE OF KIND BE@RBRICK" pieces have a very colorful impression.

AnneThat's true. I feel it's important to infuse my work with joy. We are living in a very anxious time globally, and I don't want to add more darkness. It's about seeking solace, I believe.

— Until now, all your "ONE OF KIND BE@RBRICK" pieces were handmade by you. However, the "BE@RBRICK Anne Valérie Dupond LION (BWWT 3) 1000%" being released this time is the first product where MEDICOM TOY has faithfully recreated your work.

AnneI am very proud. I was deeply honored when MEDICOM TOY proposed commercializing my BE@RBRICK. I understand very well how challenging productization can be. I have my own unique sewing techniques. I've never had formal sewing training. Therefore, replicating my style is not easy. Additionally, I use recycled materials, so MEDICOM TOY had to find materials similar to the old fabrics I used in my work. I imagine it was difficult, and I am very grateful that MEDICOM TOY accepted that challenge.

I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the MEDICOM TOY team, who worked diligently to bring this product to life with the utmost respect for my work, striving to stay as close as possible to the original. They have done an excellent job.
They have masterfully captured the soul of the lion I created and succeeded in recreating it. I was deeply moved when I saw the finished product. I am extremely happy.

— What emotions or thoughts did you imbue in the motif for this piece, "LION"?

AnneThe lion provides me with a great deal of inspiration. Known as the king of beasts, he is powerful, fierce, and feared. I enjoy subverting that power, creating a new version that is the opposite of the original.
My lion is gentle, a bit playful, and harmless. And kind. It offers a sense of security that contrasts with the initial ferocity.
This paradoxical spirit is shared across all my works. I love to gently tease power.
While I may want to playfully challenge his authority, I also maintain his dignity. His magnificent mane and the noble fabrics I use give him presence.
I believe this is why MEDICOM TOY chose this lion among the many BE@RBRICKs. I immediately agreed with their choice.
MEDICOM TOY grants me creative freedom. They trust me, and I trust them.

— What are your thoughts on the "BE@RBRICK WORLD WIDE TOUR 3," which is currently touring Asia?

AnneIt's a wonderful concept, and I'm very proud to be a part of this tour. Every exhibition is an event. It showcases the creativity of MEDICOM TOY alongside a wide range of talented artists. The exhibition design is always exceptional, a burst of beauty. I had the opportunity to visit the exhibition in Hong Kong. Walking through the venue offers an unforgettable experience filled with artistry and playfulness.

— Finally, could you tell us about what you would like to work on in the future?

AnneOf course, I want to create many more BE@RBRICKs and work with MEDICOM TOY for as long as possible. I hope to encounter many more BE@RBRICKs and other creations. I want to continue traveling the world with my art and hold exhibitions in Japan regularly. I also aim to tackle larger exhibitions and new challenges with my needle and thread.

BE@RBRICK Anne Valérie Dupond LION (BWWT 3) 1000%
Size｜Approximately 700mm in height
Release Date｜Scheduled for release in August 2024 at each MEDICOM TOY direct-managed store
Price｜¥170,000 (tax included)
*Limited quantity. Please forgive us if sold out.
©️ Anne Valerie Dupond
BE@RBRICK TM & ©️ 2001-2024 MEDICOM TOY CORPORATION. All rights reserved.