Robotars 1st Custom Show Features Ogilvy Designers with Green-themed Robotars

Gilbert Ibañez and Jan Calleja from Redworks Manila created 7-inch resin custom toys Zakitar and Slick Rick, respectively.

The two joins more than a dozen other artists and designers' Robotar designs in the Robotars 1st Custom Show at the Art Asia Gallery in SM Megamall.

Ibanez and Calleja thought of applying the "green" concept on a previous Robotar or Robotic Tarsier. Robotar is an art toy created by architect-artist Jomike Tejido to promote Philippine tourism, art, food and culture.

In tune to the concept of nurturing and cleaning up our planet, Zakitar takes in dew through its mouth to grow hydrophonic plants in its body while Slick Rick collects and recycles petroleum products and other toxic waste.

“Zakitar is my first real custom toy, my baptism of fire. I went into it thinking how practicing my craft can help our environment... Everyday objects around the house turned out to be valuable materials in toy customization,” said Ibañez, Redworks’ Senior Illustrator/Senior Graphic Designer.

“Slick Rick, like the other one-of-a-kind toys I’ve designed, allowed me to discover new ways of handling materials and approaching challenges. For the torso, for example, instead of a machine-like structure, I used cloth to simulate uniform to suggest discipline and purpose. I also support how exhibit proceeds go to Haribon Foundation for the conservation of natural resources,” said Calleja, Redworks’ Graphic Designer.

Redworks is the design and production unit of Ogilvy & Mather Philippines, Inc.

Check them out on display in Art Asia Gallery in SM Megamall until May 15.