3:00 PM on 08.08.2011 |
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In the world of collectibles, there are a lot of ideas that seem to come and go, but one that's been on the rise and looks to stay is the idea of made-to-order pieces. While Kickstarter projects are one way this is happening, California-based Maqet Inc. is putting their own spin on the idea. And it's a pretty cool spin, at that.
On the outset, Maqet seems like another small collectibles company, founded by San Francisco-based artist Keith Cottingham. Their toys are made with Plastin, a material that has properties of both vinyl and ceramics like porcelain. Their toys are all made in northern California, and so far, they've lined up a nice roster of artists to work with them and design collectibles: Frank Kozik, Yosiell Lorenzo and Shin Tanaka and Naoko Shimojo are among the names you might recognize, releasing artist versions of their characters in limited runs.
What's even better, though, is the ability to make your own simple custom based on the many different body designs Maqet has to offer. Prices start at US$22 and there's a nice number of choices already in the store, with more likely to come. There are 3" and 8" versions available of the different designs (hint: the bigger ones cost more) but the whole thing seems like a pretty cool idea. Using their design program is relatively simple, and while it is a bit limited in what it can do, you can still create some wonderful art with it.
As for what's in the future? Well, on their blog, Maqet's teased another Frank Kozik Maqet is in the works along with a colorway of his Heathrow figure, and there's likely to be more artists announcements coming. Keep an eye on Maqet; they might be small and a little less well known now, but I personally think they've got a good idea going.
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