printed on Giclée Epson Semi-Gloss
'Happy Kid' is the print of an original piece representing the happy times of a childhood, through the upcycling of once loved toys.
This piece is part of a toys series where I give a new life to objects that had otherwise a fairly short lifespan yet had the tendancy to invade family homes and therefore be an integral part of the childhood experience.
From birthday party bags, to Kinder Surprise to souvenir bought on holiday or at a fun fair...
Each piece usually has a toy or 2 that triggers happy memories, leading the viewer to narrate a related anecdote to me or to whoever they are with at that moment. I love how it creates a light and emotional bond between the piece, the viewers.
It also makes one think about the abundance of toys we might have had or give our kids today, and how many really were important, how many was plastic rubbish.
It’s not just about recycling materials. It’s my way of honouring the past while imagining a more mindful future.