Toy Shop Boy x Arts in the Park

Toy Shop Boy x Arts in the Park

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Puppets in the Toy Shop

Toy Shop Boy is a regular world-builder – and for this project, he drew on classical foundations. The Italian tale Pinocchio was the central theme of Standard Chartered Arts in the Park, Hong Kong’s largest outdoor youth art event. To drum up excitement for the 25th anniversary, Toy Shop Boy forged a world fit for the fairytale.

When creating his Pinocchio, Toy Shop Boy turned to the original 1880s novel, using its descriptions as the base for a recognisable yet unique take on the puppet. His nostalgic, grainy aesthetic was a natural match for the fairytale world. Then, as the story goes, with a little animation magic, the character came to life.

"From Geppetto’s workshop, to Pinocchio's birth, meeting the Cricket and falling into the sea…"

Beyond the screen, his characters and animated sequences were brought into the festival itself – appearing in parades, interactive art booths, and immersive experiences that extended the story into the real world.

An ode to craftsmanship – from Pinocchio being carved to life, to Toy Shop Boy’s meticulous character design and animation – it was a perfect match for a festival celebrating the art of making.