James creates Sofubi toys. We weren't familiar with Sofubi so we did a little research and learned that Sofubi (ソフビ) is soft vinyl production started in the 1950s that became a popular method of toy production in Japan, ranging from Kewpie dolls to robots.
Our friend, David grew up in Japan in the late 50's and early 60's. He did not recognize the term Sofubi; but when we showed him photos of some of the toys made in that time period he immediately recalled playing with and collecting them as a young boy. He reminisced with us about playing with his favorite toy "Godzilla".
More photos of Sofubi Toys from this time period are included in Don "datadub" Kratzer's What is Sofubi ? Presentation
In the 1970s and 1980s there was a rapid growth of both the manga and anime art forms—manga referring to Japanese comics, and anime to the animated characters. These industries inspired clubs, gatherings, and massive fan conventions. These fans started addressing each other as "Otaku", an honorific form of “you,” to convey their shared passion for anime and manga. Sofubi Toys are highly collectible and still in production. You will probably find them for sale when you attend a Comicon or Designercon Event.
James has begun posting Vinyl Painting How to Videos on his Vinyl Wonder Youtube Channel
Just in time for Halloween, James has Pocket Pals "Candy Corn Edition" to start or add to your toy collection.
Follow wondergoblin on Instagram and sign up for his newsletter to get notices of "DROP DATES" and lotteries for his Wonder Goblin Toys. They sell out quickly.
Sofubi 101: https://sofubiki.com/en/sofubi-101/intro
What is Sofubi: https://www.pechakucha.com/presentations/what-is-sofubi
Medicom Toy: https://captivated.com/collections/medicom-toy