details. That was the aesthetic of the BFFs from the start. Fast forward to 2014 and you’ve just revealed FUN GUS, which is both a platform and production toy. Could you give us the timeline and process of the concept and creation of FUN GUS? The idea for FUN GUS actually came from realizing that the word fungus could be split into FUN and GUS. I started sketching ideas for him back in 2009 or 2010. It took me a while of on-again, off-again work to get him to this point. Finding someone who could create the CAD [ComputerAided Design] files and make him look as I had envisioned took a long time as well. It was so cool to finally hold a 3D printed version of FUN GUS in my hands! FUN GUS is your largest design to date. Were there any challenges in transitioning from 3” static minifigures to an 8” articulated toy?
Clockwise, from top left: White DIY, Frank Kozik version, Buff Monster version, Jeremyville Kickstarter exclusive, Buff Monster Kickstarter exclusive, and Jeremyville version FUN GUS figures
I actually started designing FUN GUS as a 3.5" tall figure. My first 3D print of him was that size. But because it was relatively easy and not too expensive, I decided to print one out at 8" tall and loved how he looked at that size. It was much more of a sculpture and more canvas to customize. When I showed the two sizes around to other people, everyone really liked the 8" version as well. FUN GUS reminds me of the classic designs coming out about ten years ago that were more “urban.” Was that intentional? Yes, although I went back a bit farther. The original inspiration for FUN GUS’s design was the cartoon Fat Albert. The characters in that show had exaggerated features and wore crazy clothes. Originally FUN GUS had a pick in his mushroom cap and had a big floppy turtle neck on. The only details of that original direction that remains are the shell toe sneakers. When I was working on earlier versions, I showed them to other artists I admired to get their feedback. When I showed it to Tristan Eaton, he had the idea of making FUN GUS’s features less specific so that he could become a platform toy, which was as great idea. Thanks, Tristan! What’s next for Travis Cain? I am hoping that FUN GUS will eventually be a successful platform toy and that I will be able to ask more of my favorites artists to make FUN GUS their own. I also have ideas for more toys that are in the same theme — nature + urban — as FUN GUS.
Clockwise, from top left: Mac + Josh, Ray + Softee, Sprinkles + Eddie, and Big T + Little C + Barry from BFF, Series 2
For more information on Travis Cain, please visit: artforindustry.com Clutter 23 | 45