About the project
Toy Stories (2018-2020) is a project rooted in my childhood fascination with mass-produced, affordable toys and the synthetic chemical dyes that give them their vibrant colors. This series is the second phase of my ongoing exploration into the role of chemical dyes, which are pervasive not only in toys but also in much of our food and other consumer products.
Drawing from my personal experiences with these toys, the project showcases a curated selection, each depicted within a meticulously crafted diorama that showcase the related industries impact on our society and environment. Through this imagery, I aim to offer commentary on how these artificially produced items are not just playful artifacts but also products of larger industrial processes.
The vibrant colors of the toys, enhanced by synthetic dyes, serve as a metaphor for broader themes of consumerism and artificiality. By presenting these toys in a constructed setting, I highlight the contrast between their cheerful appearances and the underlying industrial and environmental impacts.