There were no lab coats or protective eye-wear, and no test tubes or Bunsen burners in the Keepsake studio’s experiment. “The sole purpose of the project was to give participants an opportunity for creative expression outside of our day-to-day work,” says artist Kris Gaughran, who helped plan the experiment. “Each person was set loose on a fun adventure of personal expression.”

“Bucky”

The project began with a blank ornament-headed figure named “Bucky,’ a concept by artist Tom Best. Tom’s drawings were then given to production designer Orville Wilson, who created the 3D model of the character. Bucky was then cast, recast and finally molded in white resin to produce 38 figures- -which were given to anyone who wanted to participate in the experiment.

Everyone had free reign to create whatever they wanted. They could use all of Bucky’s parts or leave some out. They could carve it, dissect it, cover it in felt or fabric or just give it a surface pattern with paint. The possibilities were limitless.

The results were nothing short of amazing. Tammy Haddix turned her Bucky into a lifelike gnome carrying a jar filled with fireflies that really light up. Tom Best created what he calls a “Primitive Collector” the shrunken heads it carries are also ornaments. And somehow, Don Palmiter looked at Bucky and saw Elvis -complete with big hair, a jumpsuit and rhinestone glasses.

Gnome by Tammy Haddix

“Primitive Collector” by Tom Best

Elvis by Don Palmiter

“We were inspired by each other, Don says. “A project like this rejuvenates your creativity. We were totally unrestricted by the constraints we have when working on specific ornaments for the line, such as price restraints or mold requirements. It provided a way to break away from our regular schedule and express ourselves in new ways. It also helped us see each other’s talents in a new way.”

“Although none of the results are currently planned as Keepsake Ornaments,” Kris says “they may inspire products in the future.”

More pictures of the final results are available on KOCMembers.com (see below). The figures also will be on display at the Hallmark Visitors Center in August during the KOC Event.

“The Experiment.” For Keeps 08 April 2009: 5.

The Experiment
Keepsake artists turn collectible toys into works of art

What if…
… you were given free reign to create something unusual.
… you were able to broaden awareness of a growing form of collectible art.
… you were given the chance to step out of your comfort zone.

“I wanted to give a ‘what if’ project to the Keepsakes Sculpting Studio.  What was crated was “Bucky Boy,” the ornament-headed figure.  (Thank you Tom Best and the team!). Tom’s drawings were given to Orville Wilson who created the 3D model of our character.  Bucky was then cast, recast and finally molded in white resin to produce 38 complete sets of white body blanks.  These blanks could be carved and dissected, covered in felt or fabric, or just given a surface pattern with paint.  The possibilities were limitless for each Keepsake Artist to let loose on a fun adventure of personal express.” — Kris Gaughran

KOCMembers.com, April, 2009.