AW177 "Blossoming Koi" Custom Zukie

I really thought I was done customizing vinyl art toys but it appears I spoke too soon.  I was offered a chance to participate in the Zukie vs. the World custom group show at the Toy Tokyo Underground Gallery from July 27-29, 2012.  I had to customize a DIY blank Zukie figure, and I thought this figure was awesome - not to mention I know Miss Zukie and met her at the Tenacious Toys Candy-Coated custom show.  So I tried my hand at customizing a vinyl figure one more time.

Zukies are a blank vinyl figure and they're "Mysterious characters that do not talk; they have thought bubbles and facial expressions. Zukies are about color." Zukies also "intend to generate emotions through their visual thoughts."

I wanted to convey my "visual thoughts" by painting a colorful Koi jumping out of the water, surrounded by cherry blossoms. Kois represent perseverance in the face of adversity and blossoms represent living life to the fullest.  I hope my Zukie will generate this emotion in everyone.

If you get a chance to go to the show, check out my figure.  Opening reception will be held on July 27th, 6pm - 10pm at Toy Tokyo Underground Gallery.