YAK KIKU STUDIO

Amidst the current trend of art toys, YAK KIKU Studio is gaining attention as a creator of works that seamlessly blend Thai identity with contemporary design. The story of this studio began in 2019 when ‘P Pongsakorn’, a young artist from Nan province in Thailand had a vision to take “toys” to a new dimension beyond mere entertainment.

From Inspiration to Creation

P Pongsakorn aims to create works that can narrate Thai cultural stories in an accessible and engaging way. Thus, he has combined the beauty and depth of local culture with “Kiku” character designs, a style emphasizing cuteness and vibrancy. The result is a collection that is modern and adorable yet retains its authentic Thai identity.

Journey to the Global Stage:

In 2024, YAK KIKU Studio made a significant impact by collaborating with the global company Intel to launch a special art toy at an international event. This collaboration underscored that “Thai roots” can reach the global stage when presented with an understanding of art and contemporary communication. The “Titan Armor Giant” art toy was one of the highlights, featuring guardian giant design elements from Wat Phaya Phu, an ancient temple in Nan, crafted into a cutting-edge toy with copper and silver colors symbolizing power and protection.

Living Cultural Heritage

Each item in the YAK KIKU collection is more than just a collectible; it’s a “conversation” between the past and present. Examples include:
WUKONG KIKU – a Kiku version of Sun Wukong, blending Chinese legend with contemporary design.
THE MARTIAL ART OF MUAY THAI – a miniature giant in Muay Thai attire with the “Hidden Tiger Claw” yantra, capturing the spirit of Thai fighters.

There are many other works and characters, especially the KIKU RANGER.

“KIKU RANGER is not just a collectible; I intend for it to be a character that reflects contemporary Thai identity. My ultimate goal is for KIKU RANGER to become a symbol of Thailand, in the same way that people worldwide think of Japan when they see Doraemon. I blend culture with imagination, creating stories that give KIKU RANGER life and go beyond being just an art toy, so that one day when someone mentions Thailand, they will think of KIKU RANGER first!” – P Pongsakorn, Founder of YAK KIKU Studio.

From Art Toys to Cultural Expansion

P Pongsakorn sees art toys as merely the “beginning” of expanding Thai design into more sustainable areas, such as fashion, product design, and even animation, that can reflect Thai identity in a globally understandable way. In a world searching for “creativity,” YAK KIKU is a voice from Nan, reaffirming that Thai identity is not confined to museums but can be a living, breathing toy.

Experience YAK KIKU

At the Thailand Toy Expo 2025, you can visit booth EDEN1-04 to experience the charm of YAK KIKU firsthand, or follow YAK KIKU Studi  on Facebook for future updates. Because this is more than just a toy; it’s a Thai cultural legend retold with a bright and adorable perspective.