Juce Gace, also known as Julien, has been making a name for his mischievous figures since getting noticed by toy manufacturer Mighty Jaxx when he first made pins and patches for fun on the streets. For his standout piece, A Wood Awakening, the Paris-based creative reimagines the childhood icon Pinocchio with what he calls “the foolishness of adulthood,” a theme that continues to play out in his subsequent works. Despite establishing a signature style of cheekiness for his figures, he continues to juggle visual arts with his passion for screenwriting, which he had begun pursuing before dabbling in toy design.
In celebration of the holiday season with HBX, Juce Gace has launched a new edition of his Groot-inspired collectible, I Am Wood – Golden Edition. HBX Journal caught up with the multi-talented creator who opened up about the beginnings of his toy designing journey, his creative process, and the significance of reinterpreting childhood characters.
An excerpt from the interview can be read below:
How did you get into your line of work in producing collectibles?
I have always loved toys as far as I can remember, but I wasn’t in that field at all! During my literary and screenwriting studies, I always continued to draw for fun and make some pins, stickers, clothes, prints, etc. to stick in the streets. That’s when a toy company found me and proposed that I create my first art toy! The childhood dream came true [laughing].
What is the toy-making process like from design to execution?
After discussing it with a lot of other artists, I determined that we all have a different processes! I always start with technical drawings or 3D sculpting once I already have a precise vision of the design in my mind. Then, the whole process is to get the piece as close as it can be to my initial vision. After that comes the work with my manufacturer to get all the molds, colors, and finishes perfect. I think leave a bit of time to design the box and certificate before the art toy is ready to be announced and shipped!
Is there a figure or piece of work you’re most proud of?
It’s difficult to answer this question. I’m always super proud of the last piece I’m releasing [laughing], so I’d say I Am Wood (Golden Edition)! I pay attention to details a lot, so I usually work a minimum of 7-8 months on a piece before it arrives in the collector’s hands. With such a timeframe, you’re obliged to love what you do, or else you get bored, impatient, or discouraged!
Read the interview in its entirety over at HBX.
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