FunnFunn #34 - POP-01

Funnfunn is a distinctive art toy series created by the Japanese artist duo Hatsutorin Studio, composed of Toshie and Shinji. Established in 2016 and based in Nagano Prefecture, Hatsutorin Studio is renowned for producing art toys and paintings that embody a “POP / 奇々妙々 / ゆるい” (pop, whimsical, and relaxed) aesthetic, drawing inspiration from Japanese subculture, anime, and pop surrealism.  Introduced in 2018, the Funnfunn series showcases unique soft vinyl figures characterized by their playful and imaginative designs. These figures have been featured in various exhibitions and events, reflecting their popularity within the art toy community. In 2020, Hatsutorin Studio expanded their offerings by venturing into soft vinyl toy production, further diversifying their artistic portfolio. Self-produced art toys are designer collectibles created and manufactured independently by the artist or small teams without the backing of a large toy company or mass-market brand. These toys are often highly personal, artistic expressions and are usually made in limited runs. Key Characteristics include independent creation where the artist is in control of the entire process from concept, sculpting, and painting to production and packaging. These are usually made in small batches, often 10–100 pieces, which adds to their rarity, made using materials like resin, sofubi (Japanese soft vinyl), or 3D-printed components. Hatsutorin Studio is a Japanese artist duo composed of Toshie and Shinji, established in 2016. Based in Nagano Prefecture, they create art toys and paintings that reflect a “POP / 奇々妙々 / ゆるい” (pop, whimsical, and relaxed) aesthetic. Their style is influenced by Japanese subculture, anime, and pop surrealism.  One of their notable creations is the “FUNNFUNN” series, which they began producing in 2018. This series features unique figures that have been showcased in various exhibitions and events. In 2020, they expanded into soft vinyl toy production, further diversifying their artistic portfolio.