What initially attracted you to toys, do any other things captivate you in the same way? Do you prefer creating more realistic toys or something more abstract?

My initial love of art came from drawing and sketching. As a kid, I wasn’t well off so I couldn’t afford any toys. As I grew older, I really enjoyed designing furniture and things in 3D, as I felt obviously 2D is too flat and lacks a certain perspective. I would trace out the lines on a piece of paper only to take them and fold them into actual 3D models. After awhile, I would start playing and experimenting with clay. I still have this great fascination with working in 3D. Eventually, I would take my work earnings and put them towards things such as Play Mobil and G.I. Joe. As for real vs. abstract, I would have to side more with abstract design. It enables you to have a freer reign in terms of creativity and imagination, when it comes to design.

What has been your most memorable collaboration to date? What is your favorite toy?

My favorite collaborations are probably T-Garden and Mr. Shoe. With Mr. Shoe, I was able to see him tour around various parts of the world. My favorite toys are probably my earliest ones like my G.I. Joes and my Play Mobil sets.

Can you outline your process of design for toys?

I sketch a ridiculous amount every day and it often piles up, and more often than not there’s an exact science to it. It really depends on my mood at the time and how these particular settings work their way into my design. The production time for toys is often quite long, so there are quite a few sketches that have never made it to light as a toy.

Can you reveal a little about your upcoming projects/plans?

I don’t want to reveal too much, so please stay tuned!

Do you ever feel bored looking at Gardener?

Sometimes, but to be honest, the minute I take it out of the box, I have this fresh new feeling come over me and it sort of renews everything with Gardener.

Interview: Season Chan/Jason Chow
Photography: Season Chan