Bubblegum Harbinger

Kathie Olivas is an internationally exhibited multi-media artist from New Mexico. Through her current body of work, the Misery Children, she explores society’s insatiable desire to assign ‘cuteness’ and our discomfort with the unknown. A dark blend of early American portraiture set in post apocalyptic times, Kathie’s paintings and custom toys are a satirical look at how fear affects our sense of reality. One of the central questions raised in Kathie’s work is that of ‘what if’: what if these ‘cute’ creatures had their own agenda? Are they attune to something beyond our understanding, or are we simply too cowardly to acknowledge it? Are their misshapen limbs and plated mouths a deformation from living in a desolate wasteland,or perhaps an adaptation for protection? The Misery Children are meant to evoke a nostalgic reaction that reflects isolation, fear and an uncertainty, yet they also act as empowered alter egos. While these characters explore their new lonely worlds, they double as our narrators. They guide us through their reality as they experience it and yet, even in their company, we are granted no reassurance. Tomenosuke is a distinguished gallery and shop located in Gero Onsen, a renowned hot spring resort in Gifu Prefecture, Japan. Specializing in “artistic toys” or “objets d’art,” Tomenosuke offers a curated selection of designer toys, rare collectibles from international artists and manufacturers, and unique original products. Beyond their physical store, Tomenosuke maintains an online presence, offering their curated selection to a global audience. Their online store features new arrivals, exclusive releases, and information about upcoming collaborations, ensuring that collectors worldwide have access to their distinctive offerings.