Fire Ants Pants

CHOCOLATE SOOP is proud to introduce its collectible vinyl art figure designed by Dacosta Bayley based on the ancient Japanese legend of Daruma, a 5th century monk and the founder of Zen Buddhism. DCTO: Jibun Project (Dreams Come True Object: My Project ) is a modern interpretation of an ancient Japanese Zen doll known as a Daruma doll. This curiously limbless, traditionally red-cloaked figure with unpainted eyes is used for personal dedication to a new venture such as starting a business, beginning a new path in life, or given as a gift for celebrations like New Years, weddings and birthdays. Painting in DCTO’s left eye shows commitment to a goal; once the goal is achieved, you then paint in DCTO’s right eye. DCTO (‘dik-toe’) is designed to right itself when it is knocked over, reflecting the Japanese saying, ‘Nanakorobi yaoki’, "Fall 7 times, rise 8 times”. This reminds us that no matter the number of times we may stumble, those with a persistent heart will rise again to achieve their goals, symbolizing relentless dedication and an undaunted spirit. In a modern, fast-paced world that is becoming increasingly virtual and complex, the DCTO: Jibun Project is a simple, tangible focus point on which to Camilla d’Errico is an Italo-Canadian artist who has been making waves in the fine art and comic industries with her manga-influenced style. Despite having amassed a wide artistic background in animation, fine arts, illustration and graphic design her passion has always been in comics, notably manga. Camilla resides in Vancouver, BC, where she continues her work in comics, creating her acclaimed original series – Tanpopo – based on literature. Ever the prolific artist, Camilla lives the double life of comic artist/creator and Pop Surrealist painter. Her ability to seamlessly weave comic art and manga with surrealist elements has allowed her to attain great renown in her main fields, while expanding her horizons to include fashion, merchandise and collectible designer art toys.