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The Art & Artist Series: The Filipino Graffiti Maestro and Toy Icon, Quiccs Maiquez 

Quicc Maiquez is more than just an artist and toy designer; he's a cultural icon who has bridged the gap between the streets of Manila and the global stage
Quiccs

In the vibrant tapestry of the Philippines’ art and toy scene, there shines a beacon of creativity that’s impossible to ignore – Quiccs Maiquez. From the vivid streets of Manila to international stages, Quiccs has risen as a renowned graffiti artist and a global icon in the world of designer toys. 

The Rise of Quiccs Maiquez: A Graffiti Sensation

In the heart of the bustling streets of Manila, where colorful jeepneys and busy markets create a chaotic symphony, Quiccs found his canvas. His journey as an artist began with graffiti, a medium that thrives on the vibrant streets of the Philippines’ capital. Quiccs’s graffiti work is nothing short of a visual explosion. Bold, intricate, and bursting with energy, his pieces tell stories of a city in constant motion.

Quiccs
Image Source: Artsandculture.google.com

Quiccs’s art is deeply rooted in Filipino culture. His works often feature elements from Philippine mythology, folklore, and the rich tapestry of traditions that make up our country. It’s this connection with his cultural roots that makes his art resonate so profoundly with his fellow Filipinos.

In a country that takes immense pride in its heritage Quiccs’s, graffiti reflects the nation’s soul. His murals breathe life into local legends, and his characters often wear the attire of our ancestors. Owning a piece of Quiccs’s art isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about holding a tangible piece of our own culture and identity.

A Leap into Designer Toys

While Quiccs’s graffiti adorned walls and buildings across the Philippines, he decided to take a leap into a different dimension – designer toys. These are not your run-of-the-mill action figures; they’re art pieces in and of themselves, meticulously crafted and infused with the artist’s unique style. 

One of Quiccs’s most iconic creations is the TEQ63, a stylized robotic figure with a distinctive ‘Q’ for a head. This figure took the world by storm. Its popularity is a testament to Quiccs’s ability to seamlessly blend graffiti aesthetics with expert craftsmanship. The TEQ63 is not just a toy; it’s a collector’s gem, a piece of art that’s coveted by various enthusiasts who know his name. 

Designer Toys- quiccs
Image Source: Badmagics.com

First the Philippines, Next, the World!

Quiccs’s journey from the streets of Manila to the international stage didn’t happen overnight. It was paved with hard work, determination, and collaborations with some of the biggest names in the designer toy world. His collaborations with brands like Kidrobot and Devil Toys have elevated his status as a global toy icon. 

First the Philippines, Next, the World- quiccs journey
Image Source: Cdn-img3.52toys.com

What’s remarkable is that Quiccs now enjoys complete creative freedom in his career despite all the high profile brands he’s worked with. His work has been featured in exhibitions across the U.S., Japan, and the United Kingdom, gaining recognition from renowned international brands such as Johnnie Walker, Nike, Sony, Marvel, and his childhood favorite, Adidas. 

Adidas, a brand he’s been passionate about since his school days, holds a special place in his heart, especially the iconic Superstars. As a tribute to the beloved shoe brand, he always signs his work with three stripes. It’s no surprise that Quiccs signed an exclusive two-year deal with Adidas in 2020 to design a new pair Superstars for their 50th anniversary celebration.

Quiccs collab wit Adidas
Image Source: News.abs-cbn.com

In 2021, he teamed up with Secretlab, the Singapore-based company behind gaming’s favorite chair. Their collaboration birthed the Secretlab QUICCS Edition chair, a super limited run with only 200 units available worldwide. If you’re into Quiccs’ unique urban vinyl style and gaming, this is a must-have collector’s piece. It’s the perfect fusion of gaming and designer toy passions, blending Secretlab’s design mastery with Quiccs’ creative flair. The chair channels Quiccs’ distinctive blend of hip-hop, graffiti, and Japanese robots that defines his toy creations.

QUICCS Edition chair
Image Source: Thegamer.com

These collaborations aren’t just about business; they’re about the fusion of creative minds. Quiccs brings his Filipino flair to the table, infusing it with the distinct aesthetics of his collaborators. 

Quiccs as an Icon

So, why does Quiccs hold a special place in the hearts of Filipino collectors? Let’s break it down.

Cultural Connection: His art is a tribute to Filipino culture. Owning a piece of his work is like having a slice of their heritage on their shelves.

Global Recognition: Quicc’s rise to international stardom showcases the world that talent knows no boundaries. Because of him, we can take pride in the fact that one of our own has made it to the global stage.

Designer Toy Renaissance: The Philippines is experiencing a designer toy renaissance, with Quiccs at the forefront. His success has sparked a wave of local talent, creating a vibrant collector’s community within the country. The price of his designer toys range anywhere from USD 30 to more than USD 500. 

Unique Aesthetics: His style is unmistakable. His fusion of graffiti and designer toy aesthetics creates toys that stand out. Collectors don’t just want to own them; they want to showcase them.

Community Building: Quiccs’s presence goes beyond the toys he creates. He actively engages with his fans and fellow artists, both online and offline. This sense of community building resonates with collectors who value not just the toys but the culture around them.

What’s Next for Quiccs? 

As Quiccs continues to make waves in the international toy scene, the future looks bright for him and his community. His influence as an artist will likely only continue to grow, inspiring a new generation of artists and collectors alike. 

Quiccs - international toy
Image Source: Toyconph.com

Needless to say, Quiccs Maiquez is more than just an artist and toy designer; he’s a cultural phenom who has brought the streets of Manila to international acclaim. His ability to infuse his Filipino heritage into his art has struck a chord with art collectors, making his creations highly sought after. As the world of designer toys continues to evolve, Quiccs’s influence is set to grow, leaving an indelible mark on both the local and international collector communities.

So, if you’ve read to the end, keep an eye out for Quiccs’s next creation. It might just be the piece of art that brings your collection to life. 

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