KING RACHA BOYHOOD Series (2/3) by Raha Rodriguez
The Philippines-based artist Raha Rodriguez shares with us his latest collectible, dubbed "KING RACHA BOYHOOD Series (2/3)" - with this (approx.) 16-inch tall figurine made in Wood, Epoxy, Resin, and Volcanic Ash, all housed in a excessively ornate box sized 7.5" x 5.8" x 19". I am sure there's a deeper story behind all these...
"King Racha: Boyhood, is a tribute piece to the character Pinocchio who went on a journey to become a "real boy". One must findout what it (boyhood) truly means to them for there is no absolute meaning behind it; thus rejecting the traditional stigma and stereotypical expectations of masculinity on boys and men, such as — "Boys Don't Cry"." - shared Raha Rodriguez.You might recognise the headsculpt to mirror "KING RACHA MALING" previous featured HERE too! Check out the videos below (including an animated stop-motion piece), and as well still images as you scroll further down. Stay connected via Insta @raharodriguez
"Born and raised in a patriarchal society, young boys are often told to "man up", whatever that means. Imagine growing up with other boys who constantly feel the need to be “macho” or man enough, that real men are not vocal about their troubles, and showing affection is dismissed as being an inferior of a man. Masculinity can be defined in polar opposites but is generally understood to be an achieved status that needs to be proved. Quite frankly, boys have it hard too, conforming with a perceived kind of ideal. What it means to be a man may vary depending on the particularities of daily life. I do hope the day comes that whoever they may be will no longer be shackled with the concept of what being a real man is."
"The coffin like box that is heavily embellished with flowers symbolizes death and rebirth — one's acceptance of their true selves. "I've got no strings to hold me down, to make me fret, or make me frown. I had strings, but now I'm free — there are no strings on me!" Pinocchio (1940)"
As for availability, Raha had mentioned that currently only three prototypes are in existence for the boyhood series, but he will release blank figurines for customization once he has perfected the third prototype. Raha added; "But I also do customized ones. People can inquire thru @vinylonvinyl, since it's still a prototype ... I haven't finalized the product cost but hopefully soon after the covid situation..."
