"My current body of work, entitled the "Misery Children" series focuses on the constant social desire to assign 'cuteness.' This often serves as a means to make something innocent and more appealing, therefore, non-threatening. Perhaps this allows us to comfort ourselves. My questions are based on the discomfort of "what if"-- what if these sweet creatures had other ideas? What if they knew something we were afraid to open our eyes to? Would they protect themselves; would they be able to adapt to a war torn environment and develop their own defense mechanisms? The characters are meant to evoke a nostalgic reaction that reflects isolation, fear, and an uncertainty; yet, at the same time they serve as empowered alter egos. This series is presented as a satirical look at how fear affects our sense of reality. The characters perform as narrators in lonely worlds that each explores individually, creating his or her own perspective, and thus, own reality. As our hosts, the ensemble provides a sense of comfort, the reminiscent style is soothing, yet the mood is dark. As children, they evoke a sense of temporality; childhood serves as a starting ground, a place where things begin.
Inspired by early American portraiture that often depicted children as small adults in an idealized new land, the characters parallel this vision within their own sense of post-apocalyptic conformity, uniquely documenting their own stories in a mysterious brave new world." - Kathie Olivas, MiseryChildren.com.
This brings me to a couple of her toys I want to talk about. The two toys I currently own by her (I wish there were more to show *sigh) are MINDstyle's Two-Faced Hazel (9") sold on January, 6, 2009 and Daisy (3") from The Scavengers Mini Series 2.
As you can see the 9" sports a crown and is eating her lollipop instead of holding it and wearing a dunce cap. Hazel also comes in a beautiful magnetic box which highlights more of Hazel and Olivas's work.
There are also 5 variations of her. For example the grey scale Hazel came out at the San Diego Comic Con in 2009 and only 200 were made.
I could ramble about how awesome her toys are all day. I haven't even covered her paintings, prints, and sculptures! Please check out her website MiseryChildren.com today. You won't be disappointed. Have a great Tuesday everyone!!