A Beginner's Guide To All Things BE@RBRICK

1. A Beginner's Guide To All Things BE@RBRICK

2. BE@RBRICKS may seem simple at first glance. Created by Japan's Medicom toy, it is basically a plastic bear-shaped figure that comes in various sizes and colors. And yet the toy has made its way into art galleries, MTV Cribs, and is loved by everyone from Pharrell Williams to Grace Coddington to Ben Baller. It would not be an exaggeration to say that these vinyl toys have become canvases for modern expression, playing a crucial role at the intersection of style, art and fashion. • BE@RBRICKSs are a form of collectible toy that resembles a cross between LEGO and well, a bear. These block-style figurines feature teddy bear-style heads that have become an integral mainstay of the collectible toy scene. In fact, it wouldn't be so far-fetched to say that, almost on his own, he sculpted the fashion for collecting toys in modern times, treading the fine line between toy and art. Since its inception, BE@RBRICKS has become one of the most recognized characters in the world and some of the most sought after.

3. While regular toy figurines are typically reserved for children, these bear-shaped objects have targeted a more sophisticated crowd. Having been known to sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars in the resale markets (a 2008 Yue Minjun “Qiu Tu” 1000% model sold for close to $ 200,000 USD at auction, making it the BE@RBRICKS most expensive ever sold), BE@RBRICKSs are anything but youthful. • The beginnings • BE@RBRICKSS are designed and produced by Medicom Toy of Japan, a company that is best known for its plastic figurines. The company was founded in 1996 to manufacture limited edition figures and licensed products. He has long created plastic figurines of popular culture.

4. The design and concept of BE@RBRICKS were loosely based on another Medicom Toy line: the Kaws, which pays tribute to the famous director Stanley Kubrick. The Kubricks line is also represented by a logo where you can buy kaws that uses the same font as the official A Clockwork Orange poster, while the name also coincidentally includes the Japanese word for nine: "ku." Both Kubricks and BE@RBRICKSS are made up of nine parts: head, torso, hips, arms, hands and legs with joints that can be moved. While Kubrick's toys resemble a human form, the BE@RBRICKS, as mentioned, is an anthropomorphized bear. • Most BE@RBRICKSS are made of hard plastic, but over time, different series have introduced different materials into the mix, including metal and wood. Regardless, the most common form of BE@RBRICKSS is made of plastic, however Medicom Toy has experimented with different plastics over time.

5. The first BE@RBRICKS was released on May 27, 2001 and was given as a free gift to attendees of the World Convention of Character in Tokyo, Japan. This iteration was a simple white bear with the BE@RBRICKS logo, a blue bear shape with a red "@" inside. Measuring 70mm, this set the standard size for BE@RBRICKS: 100%. • Their collaborative efforts also allow artists, musicians, companies, and more to offer their own fan bases a token that they can buy bearbrick or compete with. Not only does this help increase the visibility of these brands, but they also spread BE@RBRICKSS across diverse interest groups and demographics, perpetuating their continued success. • There is no denying the role of BE@RBRICKS in streetwear. With its limited edition and rare items, it has paved the way for other brands to introduce their own limited edition products and toys. Figures have become an undisputed staple in streetwear circles, and they're sure to go nowhere.

6. About Us • At X-playground we offer premium urban accessories and collectibles. Curated with an extensive selection of unique pieces, every item is meticulously sourced and authenticated prior to delivery. • Website - https://x-playground.com/