WALKING ZOMBIE BLANKIE

Designer art toy

Role: Character Design, Illustration, Naming • Client: Aarting 

Project

In 2010, New York-based art brand Aarting launched a global open call inviting artists to reinterpret a new 3.5-inch platform toy called Blankie. The form was designed as a blank canvas for experimentation and storytelling. More than 190 submissions were received from artists around the world, and only 12 were selected to become part of Designer Series 1.

This series quickly became one of the first truly community-driven projects in the art toy world. It gave independent creators a rare opportunity to contribute to a collectible format and bring their own voice into a shared structure. Each design in the series offered something distinct, turning a neutral shape into a collection of expressive, character-driven works.

WalkingZombie_TechPack_V2

Production tech pack.

WalkingZombie_Prototype

Wax prototype.

WalkingZombie_Front-1

Concept

Our design began as a direct response to Blankie’s awkward stance and stiff silhouette. Its posture suggested a kind of lurching movement that immediately sparked the idea of a zombie character. The concept offered both a literal and metaphorical interpretation. Visually, it gave the figure a clear personality. Symbolically, it captured the creative hunger we felt at the time: the need to explore, experiment, and make something new.

The zombie became a stand-in for that energy. It represented a drive to move forward, to stay curious, and to bring ideas to life through play and experimentation.

WalkingZombie_FigureInsert

Design Process

Our process included a mix of hand sketches, digital mockups, and production layout templates. Because the toy required printing directly onto the vinyl form, special attention was given to how the flat graphics would wrap onto the 3D structure. The final submission included artwork files, shape overlays, and production notes to ensure the integrity of the design.

For presentation, we have included early concept sketches, visual references, flattened art templates, and mockups of the final figure to demonstrate the evolution of the project from idea to production.

WalkingZombie_OverShoulder
WalkingZombie_OverHeadRight

Design Approach

We focused on clarity, simplicity, and contrast. Instead of overwhelming the form with unnecessary details, we leaned into its limitations. Small shifts in proportion and facial expression created the foundation of the character. Surface graphics were developed to enhance personality without disrupting the silhouette.

The result was a character that felt balanced. It was approachable yet strange, minimal but expressive. The design was rooted in restraint, with just enough storytelling to invite connection.

Design Process

Our process included a mix of hand sketches, digital mockups, and production layout templates. Because the toy required printing directly onto the vinyl form, special attention was given to how the flat graphics would wrap onto the 3D structure. The final submission included artwork files, shape overlays, and production notes to ensure the integrity of the design.

For presentation, we have included early concept sketches, visual references, flattened art templates, and mockups of the final figure to demonstrate the evolution of the project from idea to production.

WalkingZombie_OverheadFrontCloseup
WalkingZombie_Back

Keywords That Guided the Design

  • Character-driven
  • Contrast
  • Experimental
  • Humor
  • Narrative
  • Simplicity
  • Stylization

These keywords shaped both the creative process and the final result. They grounded the concept in emotion and intention while allowing space for surprise and instinct.

WalkingZombie_BackCloseup
WalkingZombie_Left

Outcome

The Walking Zombie Blankie became one of the standout designs in Designer Series 1. Its strong silhouette, emotional clarity, and symbolic depth helped it resonate with fans and collectors. For us, it marked a foundational moment in our approach to form, storytelling, and visual design.

The project reinforced a belief that remains central to our studio today. Even the smallest object can carry meaning, and with the right strategy and expression, constraints can become the most powerful tools in the design process.

WalkingZombie_FigureBox

Additional credits

Platform Figure Creator: Todd Wahnish

Product Visualization: Bruce Fernandez / Futago Digital

© 2025 JEC Visual, Inc.

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