Choppa Limited Edition Archival Pigment Prints on 310gsm Fine Art Paper by Fafi Graffiti Street Artist Modern Pop Art.
By exploring femininity through stereotypes and using them to her advantage, Fafi not only knocked her male colleagues and competitors out of their socks, but she also locked toy manufacturing deals with Sony and Medicom, countless press stories and illustrations for Commons & Sense, Vogue, Elle, or The Face, big market collaborations with Adidas, M.A.C, Hennessy, Swatch, Samsung and Le SportSac, not to mention many solo and prestigious group shows in the most respected galleries around the globe.
The Intersection of Medicom Toy and Street Pop Art & Graffiti Artwork
Medicom Toy, a Japanese company renowned for its innovative and artistic collectible toys, stands at the forefront of the intersection between commercial art and street pop art & graffiti artwork. Founded in 1996, Medicom Toy has become a cultural icon in the art world, mainly through its BE@RBRICK and Kubrick series. While functioning as collectibles, these toys have transcended their initial market to become significant pieces in pop and street art. Medicom Toy's products were initially seen as novelties or collector's items. However, the company has collaborated with many artists, designers, and brands over the years, transforming its toys into canvases for artistic expression. This fusion of toy-making and art has enabled Medicom Toy to play a pivotal role in diffusing street pop art and graffiti artwork. Artists from diverse backgrounds have used Medicom Toy's figures as a medium to showcase their unique styles, themes, and messages, bridging the gap between mainstream and underground art.
BE@RBRICK: A Symbol in Street Pop and Graffiti Art
The BE@RBRICK, a bear-shaped figure, has become mainly symbolic in this context. These figures, often decorated with intricate designs, have been used by street artists and pop artists alike to express social commentary, political statements, or purely aesthetic designs. The versatility of the BE@RBRICK as a medium for artistic expression is evident in its widespread popularity and the diversity of designs it has featured. From simple color variations to complex graphics and collaborations with high-profile artists, the BE@RBRICK has become a staple in modern art. Medicom Toy's collaborations extend beyond individual artists to include fashion brands, musicians, and iconic characters from popular culture. These collaborations have cemented the company's position within the art community, showcasing how commercial products can become integral parts of artistic expression and cultural commentary. Each partnership brings a new dimension to Medicom Toy's figures, reflecting current trends, societal issues, or historical art movements. This cross-pollination of ideas and styles has made Medicom Toy a significant player in contemporary art, particularly in the street pop and graffiti art niches. The influence of Medicom Toy in the art world extends beyond the physical toys themselves. Exhibitions, auctions, and dedicated galleries featuring Medicom toy figures have become common, highlighting these objects' artistic value and cultural significance. The company has also inspired a new generation of artists and designers, who see these toys as legitimate mediums for creative expression. The blending of commercialism and art through Medicom Toy's figures has prompted discussions and debates within the art community about the nature of art, commercialization, and the boundaries between high art and popular culture.
Medicom Toy's Role in Shaping Modern Art
Medicom Toy's contribution to street pop art and graffiti artwork is undeniable. The company has created a unique niche where commercialism, pop culture, and fine art intersect by transforming toys into art pieces. This convergence has redefined what is considered art and expanded the avenues through which artists can express themselves. As Medicom Toy continues to innovate and collaborate, its impact on the art world will likely grow, further blurring the lines between different art forms and making art more accessible and diverse.
