HAPPY APE-A-VERSARY: Just as we traverse the month of December and the finale of 2016 comes a very special package from Hong Kong and the creative house of the incredibly talented Winson Ma. And the timing couldn't possibly be better as he celebrates the 10th Anniversary of the Apexplorers, a beloved 1:6 scale figure series. And this will not go without fanfare given that Ma's work is being celebrated as part of a retrospective of the collection at the Xi'an Xianyang International Airport as well as the release of an incredible Winson Classic Creation 10th Anniversary 1:4 Scale Space Adam figure - check out our preview with full details.
APE R' US: We are so excited to share with you the contents of the special delivery that just arrived with this special video review which details the three figures and Apexfigures, a special hardcover release that celebrates the scope of work from Ma. Also included are the Jungle 6" DIY Art Form Vinyl figure, the Apexplorers Earphone Wrap Gear, and the pièce de résistance - Color Smile 12" Art Form Vinyl which was specially created for the exhibition by Winson x De Box. Here's the video where we get into it:
A UNIVERSE I CAN JUMP RIGHT INTO: As you can see we can barely contain ourselves, if we only had a fly-on-the-wall cam that could have captured the look on my face when I first opened the box....here's looking forward to Space Adam (he's still on pre-order now extended through December 31st, so there's still time!). Here's are some outtake images to show off what was included:
IN FINE PRINT, AND FULL COLOR: First, the gorgeous full-color coffee table book that is a perfect guide to the entire spectrum of Winson's work prior to 2013 when it was printed. There are only 500 worldwide. Maybe there will be a second printing? Oh, he did a sensational drawing for me to top things off, talk about classy artists!!! Here are a few excerpts. This book has no filler, and really tells the story of how the characters in the artist's universe come to life with the help of real life science and adventurers who work with him to document global climate change. Incredible!
MAKE ME YOURS: Next up I am pleased to bestow upon your eyes the blank DIY ape. He's cool. Sculpt is superb and has five points of articulation (head, arms at shoulders, and both hands). I hope I get to see artistic interpretations of this one out there. I'm all about d/evolution and the whole man vs ape, ape vs man, beast/man scenario/s. I know you creatives will take this one to task.....and he signed it :)
WRAP IT UP + GO APE CRAZY OVER YOUR TUNES: This is a specially set that includes an ice axe plug duct cap, carabiner cord lock and unique "climbing rope" cords. You can mix it up with your figure on the shelf or take him with you. It's a mini Space Adam on the go. With the high definition speakers and effective noise isolation, Apexplorers bring an adventurous spirit into the musical realm. Accessories: 3 sizes of earbuds, a pouch, a keychain and an adhesive pad. This is a cool lil' set.
A SPECTRAL FRUIT RAINBOW EXPLODED INTO GREATNESS: Last up is the big jaw drop. This guy is out there in black and in white colorways as well as a full color standard....but man oh man, I had to contain myself when I opened the equally colorful packaging when I encountered this Color Smile ape. Yes sirree, and he is in a strict limited edition of 300 pieces! Slightly muted near neon color blazes through as the box is opened, a symphony of color, a true celebration of the visual senses. The only piece I've seen that has slightly compared in terms of brilliance of color this year was King Korpse, Instinctoy's collab with James Groman, however this seems to sing a more ornate song. It would be great to see them tet-e-tet though ;)
Part of the overall project includes Ma's master, Ms. Rebecca Lee. She has brought his figures to the North and South Pole for location filming. The connection with the Earth is at the core of the series. They work closely to promote the idea of environmental protection. Among his work pieces, “Apexplorers” is the most well-known. Winson cooperates with different international brands, using the characters in “Apexplorers” to arouse the customers' awareness to the environment. Winson works with various charity organizations too, using his creativity and love to contribute to the society. "Art Form Vinyl", the concept of "Colorful Smiles" originates from the touching and memorable moments at the airport.
DON'T GET ME STARTED!: Check out the video for more details and other aspects of these fantastic releases. This is one artist that after his first 10 years seems to only be getting revved up for another decade ahead! We are excited for him, and his vision.
.....And in case you want a sneak peek video look into Time Wars, which looks like a great warrior ape in face armor, and incredible detailing - it is coming very soon from Winson Ma a video just appeared on his Instagram that you can view here! Happy Anniversary - here's to the next decade, starting now....!