printed on Giclée Epson Semi-Gloss
'Kinder Flower' is the print from an original piece representing the happy bloom of childhood through the upcycling of famous toys: the Kinder surprise figurines from the 90's.
Exactly from 1992 to 1995. Do you remember the Happy Hippos, Teeny Terrapins, Tapsi Turtles, Leoventuras Leo Lion, Working Craftsmen Gnomes, Les Petits Pingos, etc?
This piece is part of a toys series where I give a new life to objects that had otherwise a fairly short lifespan yet high instant satisfaction for kids and had the tendancy to invade family homes (slash floors). They are 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.