Wednesday, August 5, 2015

Be warned: Chika is cute, but wields a big syringe... Feature Toy August 2015

Japanese artist Junko Mizuno creates illustrations of a unique world.  It is known that she dislikes labeling the genre of her work, but some description is necessary to drill into the genius of her vision.

Junko combines kawaii (cute) imagery and eroticism, with a playfully morbid edge. These elements are delivered in a surprisingly cohesive way.  The resulting melange of these ingredients is used to deliver psychedelic images of strength and fertility that are simultaneously powerful and indisputably feminine.  This is why, for me, Junko's work is decidedly feminist.

Her characters also have an undertone of child-like innocence.  This is a common vein in Japanese pop culture, as can be seen in things like Lolita fashion and anime.

The world she creates is detailed and intricately conceived.  Its allure has helped it become a lifestyle brand inspiring clothing, books, calendars, postcards, and, of course, limited edition vinyl toys.

I purchased today's toy years ago at the Kidrobot retail store in San Francisco as a gift for my wife who collects Junko merchandise.  She has various books and vinyl figures in her collection and even some limited edition printed panels that Junko signed for her at SDCC. 


When I saw this figure, I was taken with it, and I knew my wife would enjoy it.  Even the name, Miznotic Fantasy Chika, is captivating.  This one is the "Peach Night" version.  There were two other color variations available: Mint Night and Grape Night. 


Delve into the world of Junko Mizuno and succumb to the Miznotic Fantasy Chika, Peach Night, Vampire Nurse figure as the feature toy for August, now, in our gallery.

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