Garden(Palm)er - Soul Maxx (Toy Soul Exclusive)

How2Work 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. Michael Lau is a Hong Kong-based artist, designer, and toy pioneer widely regarded as the “godfather of designer toys.” He is best known for his Gardener series, a groundbreaking collection of urban vinyl figures that fused street culture, skateboarding, and hip-hop aesthetics with collectible toy design. Lau started his career as an illustrator and painter before transitioning into 3D art in the late 1990s. His Gardener series, first introduced in 1999, featured stylized characters inspired by street fashion and graffiti, influencing an entire generation of toy designers. His work often includes exaggerated proportions, articulated joints, and a rough, hand-sculpted aesthetic that gives his figures a raw, DIY feel. Beyond toys, Lau has expanded into fine art, fashion, and collaborations with major brands like Nike, Puma, and Medicom Toy. His ability to merge art, pop culture, and commercial design has solidified his legacy as one of the most influential figures in the designer toy movement.