Chimera

Our annual MONSTROSITIES show is back with an impressive lineup of some previous favorites as well as a number of new additions! This year’s exhibit features the work of over 30 artists around the world.Paul Kaiju is an American artist and designer renowned for his kaiju (Japanese monster) art toys, which blend vintage sci-fi, tokusatsu (special effects), and pop culture influences. His work is particularly recognized for its vibrant colors, intricate sculpting, and monster-inspired creations that often evoke nostalgia for classic kaiju films like Godzilla and Ultraman. His toys have gained significant popularity in the sofubi (soft vinyl) and designer toy communities. Paul Kaiju is best known for his kaiju monster figures, often inspired by giant, grotesque creatures from classic Japanese films. His toys are frequently given unique names and backstories, adding a sense of character and mythos to each piece. Many of his toys are crafted in the sofubi (soft vinyl) tradition, a Japanese technique known for its handcrafted nature and malleable, durable material. This allows for high-quality detailing and articulation. Paul Kaiju has become a major figure in the kaiju and designer toy communities, gaining recognition for his skill in combining traditional Japanese kaiju culture with modern, artistic expression. His creations have resonated with both toy collectors and kaiju enthusiasts, as his figures carry a sense of nostalgia while embracing new and exciting design innovations.Established in 2004, myplasticheart is a toy store and gallery dedicated to bringing the best in both the designer toy and contemporary art world together in one place. Located in the Lower East Side in New York City myplasticheart provides one of the largest selections of designer art toys anywhere. From mini figures to plush to art books and prints you will find a wide range of unique art and design products related to the designer toy culture. The myplasticheart gallery hosts monthly exhibits showcasing many contemporary underground pop and urban artists and illustrators from all over the world. myplasticheart has exhibited works by Julie West, Chris Ryniak, Shawnimals, Andrew Bell, Scott C., and Aya Kakeda to name a few. You can learn more about our gallery and shows at myplasticheartnyc.com myplasticheart also operates mphlabs, the division of the company responsible for product development in the form of limited edition art and design collectibles. Since 2006 mphlabs has produced various projects with many local artists as well as artists from overseas. You can learn more at mphlabs.com Mo. - closed Tu. - Sa. - 12:00 pm - 07:00 pm Su. - 12:00 pm - 05:00 pm