Lab Mice - Mutant Vinyl Hardcore NYCC Edition

Splurrt is the moniker of Joe Merrill, a distinguished figure in the designer toy scene, celebrated for his intricate and often macabre soft vinyl (sofubi) creations. Drawing inspiration from vintage American toys, Rat Fink, pop culture, and Japanese kaiju, Merrill has cultivated a unique aesthetic that resonates with collectors worldwide.   Among his notable works are the “Cadaver Kid” and “Uncle Steve” figures, which have become iconic within the art toy community. These creations exemplify Merrill’s penchant for blending grotesque elements with a touch of nostalgia. Rich Montanari Jr., also known as LASH (Last Dying Wish), is an American artist renowned for his contributions to the designer toy scene, particularly in the realm of sofubi (Japanese soft vinyl) figures. As the founder and operator of Mutant Vinyl Hardcore (MVH), Montanari serves as the lead sculptor, painter, and package designer for the company. His creations are deeply influenced by horror, monster, sci-fi, and fantasy cultures, which he reinterprets through his unique artistic vision.  Montanari’s work is characterized by intricate designs and meticulous attention to detail, often resulting in limited-edition figures that are highly sought after by collectors. His studio, Death’s Vault, located in New Haven, Connecticut, serves as both a workspace and gallery, showcasing his creations and collaborations. Rampage Toys is a well-known art toy brand and production studio led by Jon Malmstedt, a prominent figure in the designer toy and kaiju scene. Based in the United States, Rampage Toys has gained recognition for producing highly detailed and collectible vinyl figures, often drawing influence from classic kaiju monsters, Japanese toy culture, and retro aesthetics. Jon Malmstedt, the creative mind behind Rampage Toys, is known for his ability to create unique sculptural works that blend the nostalgia of vintage toys with modern artistic techniques.