ARCHIVE: Gus Fink’s Boogily Heads

Article originally published 12/31/2007 at toytoons.com

From the curious psyche of artist Gus Fink come the Boogily Heads! These creatures, inhabitants of BoogilyTown, are the 3D representation of Fink’s years of drawing and doodling. Already an established artist, Gus was contacted in the fall of 2006 by Rocket USA about transforming some of his artwork into collectible toys. The project seemed like it was destined to be a hit and the Boogily Heads were born. Today, Rocket USA has produced three full series of Fink’s creepy and cuddly creations and is looking to add even more citizens of BoogilyTown. We were able to get our hands on a few toys from each of the three series currently on shelves. In this review, we’ll take a look at what sets the Boogily Heads apart from the rest of the designer toy market.

PACKAGING: It would have been cheap and easy for Rocket USA to package these mini-figures (2.25” scale) in blind-boxes. Thankfully, they opted for a cardboard box that features a clear window in the front, allowing a full view of the Boogily Head of your choosing. Most art-toy collectors value the freedom in knowing what they are purchasing, and the Boogilys make it an easy choice for those trying to complete a full set.

The rest of the box is painted in bright colors that match the overall theme of the characters. Also, the plastic insert that holds the figure separates neatly in two snap-together trays, allowing you the ability to store your Boogilys in their packaging if needed.

SCULPT: For starters, Boogily Heads are referred to by both Gus Fink and Rocket USA as "art toys," a name that they certainly live up to. Each manufactured piece looks as though it were individually hand-sculpted by the artist himself. What makes these little buggers so endearing are their flaws.

There are scratches, imperfections and other inconstancies that give you the feeling that you have purchased a singularly created piece of art. Whatever process that was used to create this "hand of the artist" feel is amazing. Each Boogily looks like it was just delivered to you from the work shop of Fink himself.

PAINT: The three series of Boogily Heads that are presently available in stores encompass a spectrum of colorful critters. From the purple splotches that cover Marshmello to the faux brown fur on Squiggie, each Boogily’s color sets of the characters personality. Even though these figures are under 3” high, the bright color and crisp paint detail makes them stand out among other small-scale figures. Rocket USA should be proud, as I opened eight Boogilys and couldn’t find one that had shoddy paint apps.

OVERALL IMPRESSION: The Boogily Heads are a combination of small-scale statues and urban vinyl toys. Their overall unique hand-made look makes them pretty dang fun to collect. Plus, they are bobbleheads! Each figure comes packaged with a sealed comic that also features a poster or activity. Considering their average cost (around $6 - $8) these things are an incredible bargain. You will find yourself dispersing them throughout your collection... hiding Boogilys among your droids and Galactic Heroes. I’m a fan of this line and can’t wait until Rocket USA announces Series 4. Trust me; your collection will be made a little brighter with a Boogily Head.