Gary Baseman’s KAZANS Sofubi Toys from APPortfolio for Dec 24th Online Release
RELEASE PRESS: "APPortfolio proudly presents a new collaboration with world-renowned artist GARY BASEMAN with 4 new Sofubi toys! Baseman’s new series features the “KAZANS,” characters inspired by his visits to Japan. A seasoned international traveler, Baseman’s art often references cultural symbols and icons that he then translates into his own unique mythical symbols and stories. While Baseman’s characters appear cute, they often represent dark, bittersweet worlds."
Scheduled for an online release on 24th December (from 09:00am EST) via apportfolio.shoplineapp.com, the figures are sized 20cm tall, and will be priced at USD$204 per set (*includes 2 sculptures per set).
This is Gary's second release with APPortfolio, after his Sold Out "AHWROO" Art Sculpture back in June 2018.
The items will also be "pre-sold" on-site on December 23rd (11:00am local time) at the PPP Gallery i Taipei, where they are exhibited as part of Apportfolio's "Sold Out" exhibition (Above on-site images via Zackary Chen and Imin Pao).
Scroll thru to get to know the characters a little bit better...!
Gary Baseman’s KAZANS: Netta Fish
"Netta Fish is the calm female fish that controls waves, soothing underwater creatures with her graceful moves. Meditative to watch, she helps bring balance and harmony."
Gary Baseman’s KAZANS: Morrie the Protector
"Morrie the Protector is the clever fox guardian and big brother to all. A diligent observer and pack leader, he constantly seeks truth."
Gary Baseman’s KAZANS: Samzilla
"Samzilla is the kaiju that shares his warmth and fire to defend the innocent. He tricks enemies with his loud roars and threatening appearance."
Gary Baseman’s KAZANS: WildGirl Freida
"WildGirl Freida is the caretaker of the Gold and Birch staffs – ancient and powerful sticks once kept by the Red Samurai and Birch Samurai. Kidnapped by the Kissliars, WildGirl Freida is restrained from using her nurturing ways that keep the energy of the land positive and peaceful."
STORY: "The Sofubi toys by Baseman represent a specific moment when the greedy Kissliars kidnap and bind WildGirl Freida in order to steal the gold staff from its protected home. The theft throws the land off balance, causing volcano eruptions, earthquakes, fires and floods. The chaos brings together the unlikely team of Morrie, Samzilla, and Netta Fish to save WildGirl Freida, the only one who could bring peace back to the land."
ABOUT: "The Kazans represent family, friendship and survival during a time of chaos. The characters also represent the many sides of personality – monstrous and greedy, innocent and kind. As seen in much of Baseman's work, nothing is simple, but hopefully good prevails over evil. This holiday season, fans of Baseman can acquire a set of Sofubi items, reflecting on the complexity of life while spreading joy."
www.garybaseman.com
Instagram: @garybaseman
apportfolio.shoplineapp.com
Instagram: @apportfolio
