Artarmy by Michael Leavitt

Just recently we came across the work of Michael Leavitt and his Artarmy has right away caught our attention. The artist builds action figures by hand and creates one-off pieces of people from the art scene, pop culture and other known faces. The amount of detail on his work is simply stunning and rather than seeing them as designer toys, his creations can be considered as sculptures. Figures are made of Futura, Nigo, Warhol, Banksy, Basquiat and many more.

“The Art Army® action figures are articulating sculptures made with synthetic polymer clay and elastic by Leavitt. Miniature, 6 in. tall figures are composed of at least 20 to 30 body part pieces each, usually with separate wrist, elbow, knee, and ankle pieces. The Art Army® grown-up “Big figure” and “Midsize” editions are made at 9″- 10″, and 10- 12 in. tall respectively, about double the size of the standard mini figure, with the same glass dome display configuration. These full size figures are far more detailed. The bigger dimensions make for more room to flesh out facial features and correct body proportions. The figures are NOT PAINTED; 95% of all details are executed with the pigmented polymer clay. Included are mini accessories and either a hand built, reclosable package OR a glass dome and plastic base. Hidden features are built into many figures, including movable ears, opening heads, revolving chest panels, and removable bodily implants.”
Check out some of his impressive work after the jump and make sure to have a look at his entire portfolio. Michael Leavitt also creates custom figures and one-off pieces on commission. Maybe something you want to consider. Really great work!