99% is Shit

Self-produced art toys are designer collectibles created and manufactured independently by the artist or small teams without the backing of a large toy company or mass-market brand. These toys are often highly personal, artistic expressions and are usually made in limited runs. Key Characteristics include independent creation where the artist is in control of the entire process from concept, sculpting, and painting to production and packaging. These are usually made in small batches, often 10–100 pieces, which adds to their rarity, made using materials like resin, sofubi (Japanese soft vinyl), or 3D-printed components. Mark James is a London based designer and graphic artist. He has worked mainly within the music industry for the last ten years, designing artwork for the likes of the Super Furry Animals and The Charlatans as well as creating his own lifestyle products, vinyl figures and exhibition work. James caught the attention of the national UK media in 2002 when the release of his controversial vinyl figure, Chinpira: The Sweet and Tender Hooligan, caused the British FA to condemn the product. In 2004 James released the first of his mixed media Cardboy series to critical acclaim, this was followed in 2006 by the second series - Sneakers. The third instalment, Cartridges, pays homage to bubble jet ink cartridges, released September 2007. Recent projects have included art directing The Fratellis album campaign, directing the Candylion video for Gruff Rhys, whilst producing the artwork, photography and the stage set for the project. James also launched his latest vinyl concept “99% is Shit” an observation on modern life, and is working on his first solo exhibition.