Veteran Japanese toy company Kaiyodo recently announced plans to release a new line of products based on contemporary Japanese wood sculptor Atsuhiko Misawa's acclaimed "ANIMALS" series. Set to launch in July 2022, the collection will feature both blind box figures and sofubi vinyl figures. This article will focus on the first installment of the "ART PROJECT" series: the "Atsuhiko Misawa ANIMALS FIGURE COLLECTION" blind box figures.
Atsuhiko Misawa began creating his "Animals" series of wood sculptures in 2000. From small-scale pieces to colossal sculptures that demand you look up, his work captivates with its charming forms and unique aesthetic. The animals' facial expressions are rendered with a natural, serene quality, as if capturing a moment of quiet contemplation, imbuing them with a profound, ethereal presence.
The "ANIMALS FIGURE COLLECTION" blind box figures, designed to be admired in the palm of your hand, are meticulously scaled-down replicas of Misawa's original large sculptures. They vividly capture the hand-carved chisel marks and Misawa's distinctive animal forms. Beautiful paint applications highlight details like delicate paw pads and vibrant fur colors, giving each figure a unique charm that stands apart from the countless other animal toys on the market today.
● Tiger (White) / トラ（ホワイト）
● Bear (Spirit Bear) / クマ（スピリットベア）
● Bird (Blue) / トリ(ブルー)
● Tanuki / タヌキ
● Elephant / ゾウ
Atsuhiko Misawa ANIMALS FIGURE COLLECTION
Suggested Retail Price: ¥850 per box, Product Lineup: 5 types total, Scheduled Release Date: July 2022
Source: KAIYODO Co., Ltd.