Montreal's Zine introduces GUERS, a beaver mascot with future potential in the designer toy scene.
This week in the collectibles world brings a mix of nostalgia and fresh new entries, with particular interest surrounding the launch of a new designer toy mascot that could become a significant staple for collectors.
GUERS and The Colony Set the Stage
SpankyStokes unveils the introduction of GUERS, a stylized beaver mascot created by Montreal-based artist Zine. This cartoonish character is at the heart of a new designer toy series, The Colony. Instead of frequently introducing new characters, Zine has chosen to focus on the evolution of GUERS through various colorways, a strategy that has worked well for other seminal figures in the designer toy community.
This approach allows for each new edition to bring a unique twist, maintaining collector interest without fragmenting the narrative. Initial editions, ‘Mocha’ and ‘Obsidian’, highlight GUERS’ playful design featuring wide eyes and a soft body shape, suggesting potential for a long-term series that evolves over time.
Masters of the Universe Continues to Capture Hearts
The retro magic of the Masters of the Universe (MOTU) franchise endures, as evidenced by two stories covered by Btoys. Alongside a nostalgic dive into rare Maitres de L’Univers vinyl records from the 80s, a new Funko Pop! release featuring the character Teela garners attention. Described in detail, Teela’s figure presents high-level craftsmanship, capturing the spirit of the film’s interpretation albeit with unique touches that distinguish it as a collectible piece.
These releases underscore the lasting appeal of MOTU, both in its original and various collectible forms, solidifying its place within the community of classic toy enthusiasts and newer fans alike.
Vinyl Toys and Niche Markets
In the realm of vinyl toys, attention shifts to ToysREvil with their update on the “RIPSTICH” figure from T9G’s “ORANGE MUTATION” solo exhibition. Standing 17cm tall, this figure continues in T9G’s tradition of highly crafted and artist-driven vinyl creations.
Though the excerpt is sparse, it highlights the niche market’s dedication to unique, art-focused collectibles. “RIPSTICH” offers a tactile example of how vinyl continues to be a fundamental medium in the contemporary collectible scene, appealing to both artists and connoisseurs seeking pieces that push creative boundaries.
This week’s collectibles coverage highlights the breadth of interests among collectors, from nostalgia-driven vinyl to the introduction of future iconic characters. With established franchises like MOTU alongside emerging artists like Zine, the sector maintains its dynamic range and appeal.
