Helper Dragon - Purple

Squibbles Ink is a Chicago-based art toy producer known for collaborating with artists to bring designer toy concepts to life. They specialize in manufacturing limited-edition vinyl, resin, and plastic figures, often working with independent artists and brands to produce high-quality collectibles. One of their most notable collaborations has been with artist Chris Ryniak and Rotofugi, resulting in popular figures like the “Lake Monsters” series. Squibbles Ink has also worked with artists such as Shawnimals, contributing to the production of the Ninjatown toy line, which features soft vinyl and plush ninja characters. Squibbles Ink is recognized for their attention to detail, craftsmanship, and commitment to supporting the designer toy community. Their work often blends cute and creepy aesthetics, reflecting the unique styles of the artists they partner with. he Roto-a-Matic™ began it’s life as a vintage Mold-a-Rama* machine, invented in the mid-1950’s by Tike Miller, formerly of Quincy, Illinois. If you are lucky enough to have lived in the few midwest states (as well as some parts of California and Florida) where Mold-a-Rama machines have been operating for the past 40-plus years you have probably seen one at a zoo or a museum making souvenir animals, dinosaurs and the like. Our machine once lived in the Los Angeles Zoo where it last made kangaroos, but was retired after decades of service. We have lovingly rehabbed this machine, re-christening it The Roto-a-Matic™. Then we asked some of our artist and toy designer friends to make new sculpts for the machine so it now makes art toys instead of zoo souvenirs, but the spirit is still the same…visit us in Chicago, put in your token and see your toy made right before your eyes! There’s nothing better than the feel of the warm plastic as you reach into the bin to pull out your newly made treasure. We sincerely hope you enjoy this figure as much as we have enjoyed making it possible. Beginning in late 2007 Chicago based designer toy store and gallery Rotofugi partnered with Chicago-based product development specialist Squibbles Ink to begin producing artist-designed figures by the talented designers that they've come to know over the years. They've worked with Shawnimals, 64 Colors, Chris Ryniak, Travis Lampe and Joey Potts on toy projects so far...and there's more in the works! Rotofugi Designer Toy Store & Gallery, established in July 2004, is located on the border of Chicago's Lincoln Park and Lakeview neighborhoods in a beautiful vintage building. Since opening, Rotofugi has grown to become one of the world's premier sellers of designer toys from artists all over the world. Rotofugi features a diverse selection of vinyl figures, capsule toys, plush and more from both eastern and western designers. The adjoining Rotofugi Gallery features monthly art exhibits by a range of both local and nationally known artists. Beginning in late 2007 Rotofugi partnered with Chicago based product development specialist Squibbles Ink to begin producing artist-designed figures by the talented designers located in their home town. Click here for more information on Squibbles Ink + Rotofugi projects. Rotofugi is owned and operated by husband and wife duo Kirby and Whitney Kerr. You can find the couple in and around the store on most days. They love to talk about toys and art. Tim Biskup is an American artist recognized for his vibrant and dynamic works that encompass painting, sculpture, printmaking, and design. His style blends influences from mid-20th-century modern design, punk rock, and pop surrealism, resulting in pieces characterized by bold colors and intricate patterns. Biskup studied at the Otis College of Art and Design before venturing into the animation and illustration industries, where he contributed to projects for companies like Disney and Cartoon Network. Biskup co-founded GAMA-GO, a San Francisco-based retail company specializing in housewares, gifts, apparel, toys, and accessories.