6" Hasheem (2017)

Santa Inoue (Japanese; b. 1968 in Paris, France) parisian-born Japanese artist Santa Inoue[a.k.a. “King of Street Comics”] made his debut as a comic book author in 1989, when he won the Young Sunday Newcomer Prize (organized by the preeminent publishing house Shogakukan) for his piece “Murder”. His penchant for, and fascination with, urban life is perhaps best depicted through the grand landscape of his hometown in his largely popular graphic novel “Tokyo Tribe”. It has gained a cult following since its original release in 1993, and has been re-issued multiple times from various publishers. Its sequel “Tokyo Tribe2” was serialized in men’s style magazine Boon, and has been translated and released in the U.S., France and several other countries (as “Tokyo Tribes”). In 2006 “Tokyo Tribe2” was also made into an animation film and broadcast on the Japanese cable TV station Wowow. Prior to that, in the previous year, another of his serial works “The Neighbor No. Thirteen” (1994) was made into a feature film. And in 2014, “Tokyo Tribe2” was also made into a film directed by Sion Sono and had a successful theatrical run in Japan and other countries. Currently Santa has a on-going serial: “Tokyo Tribe Waru” in monthly mangaHow2Work is a Hong Kong-based art toy company known for its high-quality designer toys, collaborations with contemporary artists, and a strong focus on storytelling through collectibles. Established in the early 2000s, the brand has been instrumental in bringing Asian and international artists’ visions to life through detailed vinyl, resin, and mixed-media figures. How2Work is especially recognized for its partnerships with well-known artists such as Kasing Lung, Eric So, and Tik Ka From East, producing figures that blend traditional and modern aesthetics, surrealism, and pop culture influences. Their toys often carry a dreamlike, whimsical, or nostalgic charm, appealing to both designer toy collectors and art enthusiasts.