There’s a few things humans have done since the beginning of time; Cry, do violence and have toys (I have two History degrees and this is 100% accu-rat). We’ve been making toys for as long as we’ve had tools, maybe even longer? Do you think our chimp ancestors had like, play rocks and utility rocks? Like no don’t use that rock for hammering shit, I like to pretend that one is me but with loads of bananas and monkey wives.
I first started this letter talking about iconic toy designs, discussing Barbie and how the creator of the classic doll - Ruth Handler - also looked like she habitually solved murders.
But that got boring pretty quickly. So instead, enjoy looking at some independent toy makers/designers that I follow that I think you should follow also! As some of you may remember, these letters follow a sort of long read, short read routine. I’ll be back next week with a longer read with paragraphs and ideas and themes and maybe, if you’re lucky, some punctuation! Isn’t life grand?
Emilio Subirá
Spanish “toy maker, sculptor, painter and weirdo” Emilio Subirá makes figurines that look like things that are almost familiar, but aren’t. From chicken nugget variants to aliens in tanks to uh, JESUSAURUS REX TURBO.
This one of a kind rubber and resin figurine reminds us that Jesus was born too late to save the dinosaurs. And that’s sad. Or what about the Killer Quokka?
They remind me of comic book characters, with their beefcake (throwback!)* physique, the Quokka 97s on their feet and a general look of menace. You know they can fit a lot in them cheeks.
Finally, this cutie patootie - a little baby man in a tank (with ears), who could also probably swing on you if you were acting up. Go check out Emilio’s other work, including paintings and other artwork too! If you love what you see, let em know! And as always, tell em Rat Depot sent ya.
Pendragon
Köln-based toy artist Pendragon makes some amazing stuff that’s really diverse. The figure of the revolutionary below, gun and child in hand is simple but powerful and the deep black colour against the red backing card provides a vibrant contrast that would stand out on a shelf, a shelf eager to prove itself as one of the best shelves in your house.
The figure below, “Asudem” - the reverse of Medusa - has a cool glittery texture and that NECK. Powerful, mysterious and dare I say….slay?
Finally, this spiky lego man, who reminds me of the film Mandy (2018) for some reason.
There’s a lot of great work on Pendragon’s profile so please go and give it a proper look!
Kosmo Toys
Buenos Aires based toymaker “Dr Kosmo” makes toys that are reminiscent - or direct bootlegs - of classic monsters from early Hollywood. Frankenstein, the Creature from the Black Lagoon, Necronauts - more a comic book icon - amongst others are remade in a nostalgic but unique way. This x-ray creature from the black lagoon has that spooky, goo with bones feel while still characteristically the creature itself.
This brilliant moving carousel has some great details, the jackets or spines of the cat-like creatures look like bone armour, the top of the carousel resembling both a gargoyle and a castle turret. Great stuff! (sorry the embed didn’t work on this one).
Dr Kosmo? Dr Kos-go to the polls (their profile) and chill in cedar rapids! (have a look).
Michael Parrillo
I mean, come on. This absolutely bangs. Reminds me of the game Little Nightmares or the film Coraline with the long rickety limbs and old wood house. I wonder what kind of cigarettes they smoke. Probably hand rolls. Maybe a Golden Virginia man. Oh shit wait! Parrillo ALSO did a model from Little Nightmares II!! The farmer at the beginning of the game who tries to clap you with a gun. Anyway…this little punk frog (who also makes smoking look cool) is such a vibe. I’m including this to appease the girlfriend gods (my partner Mia loves frogs). I think they would be called…Kieran Croakin.
Go and check out Michael’s work EXPEDITIOUSLY!
Killtro Toys
And finally, a lovely reminder from Haifa-based punk toy maker Killtro, that there are no good cops!
Burning Man is a masturbatory Instagram shoot for rich people!
And of course, a reminder that Biquette will always be, the goat goat.
RIP Queen.
That’s all for this week! I’ll be back to talk about toys on Rat Depot FM sometime soon - guests pending - and will be talking about various things, including an old Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle phone I cannot currently prove exists, Bionicle and a dog lead that captures ghosts. So you should definitely tune in! And if that sounds like shit, you’re absolutely right and I’m sorry.
If you’re not shy and feel like chatting to me, you can reach me on instagram or via email paullewis.pk@gmail.com !
Love,
Paulie xx
* - Newer readers may have missed out on a cracker of a letter on beefcakes, himbos, big men. Check it out here for all your beef content and to never miss a beef coded reference again! ^