ninja spiki prototype by nakanari (of mai hiro)
Since my last feature of NINJA SPIKI in 3-dimensional render forms (with Amonlin) - it's creator Nakanari has since dropped word of the prototype sculpt of his ninja-creation, along with news of his new brand, Mai Hiro (together with artist; soujohn). Produced by Kuso Vinyl, the 8-inch tall vinyl figure is to possess 6 points-of-articulation (head / arm / head / bending tail) and includes scarf, katana and 2 shurikens (for max ninja-action! LOL). Colorways are as yet revealed (with exclusives in 2009). Way to go, Tony!
To be packaged in a "bento box" - SPIKI has a tentative release date in early 2009. Meanwhile, CLICK THRU for write-up of Nakanari and the genesis of Mai Hiro.
In 2005, Nakanari created the Crossover Show that was held at both the Gallery Nucleus in LA, as well as Rotofugi in Chicago. Following this in 2007, he, along with his partners in Me Llamo Jellyfish, developed “Project Vinyl,” a designer toy exhibit that debuted at the FX Show Toy and Comic Book Convention in Orlando, Florida. It was an exhibit for designer vinyl intended for those not aware of the growing popularity of this artistic movement. It was a great success thanks to the hard work of the crew, along with the assistance of Jamungo, DKE, Pop Cling and many artists who participated in a custom BUD show. Everyone working together made it the most unique and popular area of the FX Show. Later in 2007, Agi Agi Studios was formed with Nakanari and the other members of the group, Dave Quiles, Oni, and Spider.
They worked together to make Nakanari’s Kaji Cube plush concept a reality, with the 4 artist versions debuting at their Bubble Pop Show in Orlando. In March of 2008, Nakanari and Dave Quiles showcased their imaginative works at a duo show called "Technobabble" at myplasticheart in New York City. Nakanari, never content to stop innovating in 2008, has created a new brand called Mai Hiro with talented local artist, soujohn.
The Mai-Hiro brand focuses on strong character design and illustration. Nakanari serves as project director with brand collaboration in toy design. Nakanari's goal is to continue to show freshness with his art work and design work.
He is currently finalizing designs and working with some production companies to bring his famous and often duplicated, “Spiki” character into 3 dimensions as a limited edition vinyl figure. He is working on some very special toys based on his trademark Misfits of Nakanari line along with recently having submitted a design to Kidrobot for a Dunny after he was asked to do so. He had shows lined up for the rest of the year continuing well into 2009, with some special exclusive designs being planned for the major conventions. Also, he is working on a T-shirt line "project Kt Love" that features his characters interacting with the very beautiful Asian model, KT So. Be sure to keep an eye out for Nakanari’s upcoming releases, or you’ll be sure to miss out on something special.
[additional pics via]
