Omschrijving
What would vinyl and collectible toys be without the Hong Kong explosion? Enter Michael Lau... the artist who was instrumental in defining a new category of collectible figures. In the ten years since the first Hong Kong ToyCon set fans abuzz, Lau has become an icon. In a constantly evolving culture, with explosive growth in the global vinyl marketplace, his name has stood the test of time. And as his first USA exhibition draws near, Lau's relevance to popular culture has been validated. This book is a celebration of his amazing body of work, providing an inside look into a unique subculture and an intimate portrait of the man responsible for a collectible revolution. Lau's world combines the ideals of music and art that emerged from the street. His characters are based on "real life," yet translated into his own vision, style, and approach. It's about the freedom and lifestyle of skateboarding, and the relation of his characters to each of us. Lau remains independent by limiting his production and continuing his hands-on approach to every step of production. He not only creates his own concept art, but actually sculpts and paints his figures for production, epitomizing a rare breed of visionaries able to connect with an audience that has remained loyal over the years. Through sketches, drawings, photographs, short stories, and notes from his circle of friends, Gardener 10th captures the essence of one of this generation's finest toy makers. Big, hardcover, color. Choking hazard, small parts, not for children under 15.