[Part 2] A unique style that brings out what you like

CHUKUKOBOA new soft vinyl art piece will be released fromMY BEAR"Illustrator umao and CHUKUKOBO This is the second time they've teamed up, following the release of the soft vinyl figure "MY GHOST BEAR" in 2021. This time, umao actually came to the workshop, CHUKUKOBO We spoke with representative Mr. Ima about the production of soft vinyl figures. This article is the second part of the interview. The first part isHerefrom.

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profile

Illustrator. Based in Tokyo, graduated from Kyoto Seika University, Faculty of Design. Since 2016, has worked as an illustrator for books, advertisements, and websites. Likes animals and the color blue.

: CHUKUKOBO Representative. Likes math and french fries.

--For the second part, I'd like to start by asking you about "MY GHOST BEAR."

"MY GHOST BEAR" was the first mass-produced three-dimensional object designed by umao-san. What were your feelings about creating a three-dimensional object as a product?

I've loved soft vinyl figures since I was a kid, so it was purely a "Yes!" kind of feeling. I figured I could just leave the rest to the professionals and it would all work out (laughs).

When I saw the illustration for "MY GHOST BEAR," I knew I absolutely had to try this design. The bear's arms and legs move properly, and the ghost's cloth can actually be put over it. I think this is probably something that hasn't been done before, but because we have our own factory, we wanted to challenge ourselves with something that others couldn't do, so I felt like we were given a great challenge.

I was really happy that we were able to create something that children could play with right from the start. I've always had the image that soft vinyl figures are meant to be played with, so even though this is positioned as an art piece, I'm glad that it has gimmicks that both adults and children can enjoy.

↑ "MY GHOST BEAR" 2nd color

"MY GHOST BEAR" has been released with new colors several times before, but when umao suggested this color for the 2nd edition, I was truly surprised.

I really love pandas. Since I'm a bear, I wanted to make something panda-like, but just using panda colors wouldn't be interesting... So, I came up with a villainous image that makes the most of his mischievous expression. I also kept in mind the look of villainous eye makeup.

:Umao's work is always characterized by crisp, solid colors, especially blue. That's the impression I have of her work, so the gradient was a surprise. The panda was also a surprise, to be honest, but I guess you like them.

I like pandas so much that I use panda emojis excessively. Blue has always been my favorite color.

—Your profile says you like blue, and blue is the color that comes to mind when I think of you, umao.

When I first started out as an illustrator, I was drawing pictures for business purposes that were completely different in style and color from what I do now. I was trying different things, wondering, "Will this be popular? Or maybe this?" but it just wasn't working.

So I thought I'd try putting my favorite things front and center as a last resort. I figured if that didn't work, I'd just give up, and that's how I ended up with my current art style and use of my current colors... and as a result, I've gained recognition from a lot of people.

↑ The work that inspired the creation of 'MY GHOST BEAR'

--At the end of the first part, there was a brief mention of the third and fourth installments, right?

Actually, we're planning to release the third product, "Seal," and the fourth product, "MY GHOST HEDGEHOG," sometime this year. I really wanted to make the "Seal," so I gave a really enthusiastic presentation to the president, and he said, "Okay, go ahead and do it." (laughs)

—The seal is a cute little size that fits in the palm of your hand.

"I created the 'Seal' because I wanted to make it easier for people to get their hands on umao's soft vinyl figures. I wanted a simple design, and something that would look good in any number. Wouldn't it be cute to have dozens of these mentaiko-like 'seals' on a display modeled after an iceberg? I'm thinking of setting up the actual exhibition and sales in a similar way."

I actually made a seal out of clay once. It was about this size. At the time, I really wanted to make a lot more, but since it was all done by hand, I got tired and only managed to make three. So this time, I can finally make lots of them! And without getting tired (laughs).

"MY GHOST HEDGEHOG" already has a prototype, and it has a surprisingly strong presence.

: That's right. I was impressed by the spikes on its back. I was wondering how they would turn out while I was drawing them myself, so I'm happy that you were able to make them three-dimensional so well.

↑You can also enjoy the ghost style.

--Finally, could you tell us about your future plans, umao?

: It's amazing that you're active as both an illustrator and an artist, and that you're recognized for both. I'm curious to see what the future holds for umao.

I want to continue creating artwork and pursuing both activities. I tend to see my work as being primarily driven by my job, but I've also realized the importance of letting many people know about my work through solo exhibitions and other events.

Rather than saying that I'm doing completely different things as an illustrator and an artist, I think the roots are the same, and the paths have naturally branched out as I've continued my activities.

I want to continue actively pursuing both client work and creating and presenting my own projects.
Both are challenging, but very enjoyable, and I want to continue doing my best in the future.

Thank you, umao!

Currently at Kenelestore,MY BEARPre-orders are now being accepted.Herefrom.