We all collect to different degrees. For some it’s an undeniable urge, passion and need. For Gino Joukar, curator of the Movers and Shakers annual art show, collecting is a core part of his identity. Until two years ago world-class racing motorcycles, commemorative silver bars, and coins were his primary outlets. His collecting interests took a significant turn as he learned about Pop Surrealist art and Art Toys. This started him on an unrelenting collecting frenzy.
After months and months of continuous acquisitions, Gino started running out of space to display his new figures. New pieces were left in boxes and stacked upon one another. Wanting a proper way to display and enjoy his collection as well as share it with others, Gino put plans into action for a dedicated space for his Art Toy collection. The result is the nearly completed Toy Art Gallery (TAG) in Hollywood.
Using my Jedi Mind Tricks, I convinced Gino to let me take a look into his toy sanctuary. I’m glad I did. It’s a pleasure to stand in the room and appreciate the wide variety of toys present, from pieces by well-known western artists to Kaiju monsters of all imaginable shapes and colors. From production to one-of-a-kind customs nestled in custom cabinets, there’s something to catch your eye at every angle including Carlos Enriquez-Gonzalez's Mushroom Brain Carousel (above). It’s a cliche but true – pictures really don’t do toys justice – the scale and the 3D beauty are lost. Additionally, the whole has an impact that no single piece ever could. One appreciates the art toy movement as one stands in the middle of its output.
Enjoy this sneak peak, the first of several planned looks at what awaits in the Toy Art Gallery. Next time: giant toys.
