Gary Baseman is a  Los Angeles–born interdisciplinary artist, illustrator, animator, and toy maker whose vision extends from gallery walls to collectible shelves.

In 2005, Baseman blurred the line between fine art and toy culture with the launch of 

 — a limited edition plush figure that debuted in galleries rather than toy stores. The character is described as “everyone’s best friend,” an all‑seeing, all‑accepting companion who carries emotional resonance alongside its cute appearance.

His toy repertoire is wide and imaginative: from vinyl releases like 

 (a limited 27 cm edition crafted with rotating cylinder packaging)

, which comes with a signed certificate and interactive features such as standing or “doing the splits.”

He’s also collaborated with major brands — for example, he teamed up with 

 for a plush version of Toby commemorating Mattel’s 80th anniversary.

GARY BASEMAN