Sogno Marbled Uamou w/ Glow Eyes (SDCC '16)

Rotofugi Designer Toy Store & Gallery, established in July 2004, is located on the border of Chicago's Lincoln Park and Lakeview neighborhoods in a beautiful vintage building. Since opening, Rotofugi has grown to become one of the world's premier sellers of designer toys from artists all over the world. Rotofugi features a diverse selection of vinyl figures, capsule toys, plush and more from both eastern and western designers. The adjoining Rotofugi Gallery features monthly art exhibits by a range of both local and nationally known artists. Beginning in late 2007 Rotofugi partnered with Chicago based product development specialist Squibbles Ink to begin producing artist-designed figures by the talented designers located in their home town. Click here for more information on Squibbles Ink + Rotofugi projects. Rotofugi is owned and operated by husband and wife duo Kirby and Whitney Kerr. You can find the couple in and around the store on most days. They love to talk about toys and art.This profile is a mix of all designer toys made by the artists. We may reorganize this profile in the future and an artists that creates their own toys would have a separate manufacturer profile.Uamou, a lovable, round-headed creature with adorable, minimalist facial features and a variety of expressions. Uamou’s simple, yet endearing design has made it a favorite in the designer toy community, and the brand has expanded to include various characters and themes within its universe.Ayako Takagi’s goal is to expand the world of UAMOU through picture books, figures, animation and jewellery, bridging the gap between the character movement and art/design. From a young age she was greatly influenced by her parents who were both jewellers. Growing up in a creative environment, Ayako had always been interested in drawing and making things. Whilst studying in London she started making and selling UAMOU products throughout Europe. After graduating from Camberwell College of Arts she moved back to Japan where she is working as an artist and designer on the international stage.