It must be something entirely human to collect things; just because we like something and because we can. One thing that always grabs my eye is creativity, which certainly describes my collection of custom art toys.
Meet the Ugly Unicorn! This unique creation by Jon Malmstedt caught my eye a number of years back, as its whimsical nature is coupled with an imaginative design. Jon’s design has proven to be a great platform, as he has created many interesting variants with different base colors and amazing paint jobs, which make Jon’s work true pieces of art.
Jon has also done a significant number of collaborations with other artists, particularly in the Japanese art toy scene, as Jon has been living in Tokyo for quite a while. Jon has also created a number of other unique toys, including a new generation of the Ugly Unicorn, which I will feature at a later time.
As I mentioned, the base vinyl and paint jobs can be very interesting, such as the glow in the dark version that Jon created for one of his Halloween releases.
My collection is approaching 100 Ugly Unicorns, which include a significant number of very limited releases and several one of a kinds.
And I shouldn’t forget to mention that Jon is a great guy, as I have had the pleasure to meet him several times and go for a hike and a drink with him! Go check out his on-line store, as well, where he releases most of his work: Rampage Toys and Art, and tell him I sent you!
Technical Data
Both images were captured with a Canon EOS 5D Mk II and EF 24-105 f/4L IS USM lens. The top image was lit with studio lights, dialed in for 1/100 second, f6.3 and 100 ISO. The glow in the dark image was done with an 8 second, f/5.6 at 400 ISO exposure.