Empire Seven Studios is excited to feature the work of FLABJACKS for the first time in SJ! This body of work is a series of color pencil illustrations that share the everyday thoughts running through our minds and offer positive reminders to keep going. Additionally, there will be a few larger paintings that are out of this world, literally a transport to a whimsical world with the cutest creatures. The colorful messaging is playful and perfect for all ages, so please feel comfortable bringing the kids and family.
The exhibition channels FLABJACKS’ latest obsession with making posters that serve as little reminders and notes to self, a series she released under the collective moniker “FUZZY REGARDS.” Created using coloring pencils on ARCHES paper (the artist’s absolute favorite), the series is a return to the simplicity of a medium that has brought the artist tremendous joy and lightness throughout the creative process. Serving as a supportive guide and an everyday dose of optimism, the “FUZZY REGARDS” series of posters carries a message of hope, positivity, personal growth, and love. For Ton, the most important aspect of the series is that it truly feels like they were created for her, and nobody else. “Dream Life” also showcases a series of wild and wonderful creatures that have become a newfound presence in the day-to-day of Ton’s studio and beyond. From chunky dragons with long winding necks to mystical unicorns bristling with magical powers, these paintings each drew inspiration from her day-to-day adventures in motherhood. As a mother of two young boys, Ton resonates with being a bit like a towering creature herself — surrounded by uniquely unpredictable wildlings in an ever-changing landscape.
Visual artist, Ton Mak, is best known for her series flabby creatures; FLABJACKS. Ton began creating various characters and narratives after graduating from University College London as an Anthropology student. Tying together her love for art, ethnography, and storytelling, FLABJACKS are often visual representations of the seemingly mundane and an everyday fantasy world. To date, FLABJACKS has collaborated with brands such as Nike, Gucci, Grana, Swatch, Pop Mart, Legos, and Vans. Currently, her studio is in Shanghai and San Francisco.
Pang Pang Market | Nanjing Art Museum | Solo Exhibition, 2019
Ton Mak has released several series of Banana Boo blind boxes through past collaborations with Pop Mart. To celebrate her first solo show in San Jose, she will be showcasing a new Banana Boo toy. This friendly and silly little banana friend will be for sale in a limited quantity as part of an exclusive early release in addition to the artwork.
LOVELY DAY | Guangzhou | Solo Show, 2019
Hanging this collection of artwork at a hotspot in your house will serve as a constant reminder to always be great to yourselves. We are looking forward to meeting all of the collectors who get to take this special collection home with them! Interested in receiving a special collectors preview before the doors open ,email us info@empiresevenstudios.com