In partnership with
Fresh off DesignerCon in Las Vegas, Guam’s celebrated toy artist Zard Apuya is wrapping up a successful year of creative output with his latest collaboration with Thumbprint Gallery in San Diego: “The Toy Show,” which opens 4-9 pm today as part of First Friday La Jolla Art Walk.
Zard has been working with the gallery for almost 10 years now, starting with solo shows in 2017 and transitioning into group endeavors including Guam Artist Collective exhibits the past two years. This year, “they wanted specifically a toy show, because they've never done a toy show,” he said, adding that while it showcases a niche medium, a toy art exhibit aligns perfectly with the holiday season.
As one of San Diego’s premier custom toy artists and thanks to his existing relationship with the gallery, Zard was offered the opportunity to curate the show. Despite the logistical challenge right after DesignerCon, he embraced the chance to showcase the craft of toy art collectibles — handmade art pieces in various styles and media.
More than 40 artists are represented in “The Toy Show,” and Zard drew upon his established network of artists from across the county, many of whom he has exhibited with at major events like DesignerCon.
Designer toy artist Zard Apuya, right, works with graphic design students at Westview High School in Poway, California.
(all photos courtesy of Zard Apuya)
The exhibit also serves as a mentoring platform for the next generation of creators. Zard has included graphic design students at Westview High School, where he has been a guest speaker for years. Additionally, the show features emerging young talent, including Zard’s 7-year-old nephew and a 10-year-old he has also mentored, ensuring the exhibition offers a diverse range of styles and skill levels to help familiarize the public with the custom toy art scene.
Almost all of the pieces will be available for purchase at the gallery, and for those who can’t make it to the exhibit, Thumbprint will offer a listing on its website so buyers can purchase them online as well.
Artwork by Priscilla Marquez that will be on display at The Toy Show exhibit Dec. 5-27 (Instagram @priscillasarte)
Artwork by Manny Cartoon Studio that will be on display at The Toy Show exhibit Dec. 5-27 (Instagram @mannycartoonstudio)
With opening night coinciding with La Joll’as First Friday Art Walk, the reception promises to offer island hospitality with good food, drinks and company, according to Zard. If you go, we’d love for you to tag us on your photos and reels — @myjunglerules!
‘THE TOY SHOW’
Where: Thumbprint Gallery at 920 Kline Street, La Jolla
When: Opening night is Dec. 5 4-9 pm. The exhibit runs through Dec. 27, and the gallery is open 12-4 pm weekends and by appointment.
Website: thumbprintgallery.com
ADVERTISEMENT
Modernize your marketing with AdQuick
AdQuick unlocks the benefits of Out Of Home (OOH) advertising in a way no one else has. Approaching the problem with eyes to performance, created for marketers with the engineering excellence you’ve come to expect for the internet.
Marketers agree OOH is one of the best ways for building brand awareness, reaching new customers, and reinforcing your brand message. It’s just been difficult to scale. But with AdQuick, you can easily plan, deploy and measure campaigns just as easily as digital ads, making them a no-brainer to add to your team’s toolbox.