JAMES GROMAN

James Groman, a 1986 graduate of the Cleveland Institute of Art, boasts a prolific career spanning toy design, illustration, and sculpting. With an impressive repertoire, he has left his mark on numerous iconic toy brands and franchises since his graduation.

Among his notable contributions are his work on beloved toy lines such as Care Bears, Popples, and Madballs, showcasing his creative vision and skill in crafting memorable characters. Notably, he spearheaded the development of Barnyard Commandoes for Playmates Toys, showcasing his knack for imaginative and playful designs.

James's talent extends beyond toy brands, as he has lent his expertise to renowned franchises like Star Wars, Harry Potter, and Marvel Comics. His meticulous design, sculpting, and prototyping have helped bring beloved characters to life in various forms, from action figures to collectibles.

Operating his own entertainment and toy design studio, James collaborates with companies worldwide, bringing his unique flair to diverse projects. His collaboration with Japanese company Instinctoys resulted in the acclaimed King Korpse Vinyl Figure, earning him the prestigious Designer Toy Award for Toy of the Year in 2017, along with subsequent accolades for his Kaiju Killer vinyl figure in 2020.

In recent years, James has ventured into creating large vinyl figures, showcasing his versatility and innovation. Collaborations with 52 Toys and Black Dot Toys have yielded original designs like Manstadon and Horn, as well as licensed items inspired by properties such as Madballs and Universal Monsters.

Notably, James's partnership with Mondo has yielded remarkable creations, including a towering 12-inch Godzilla vinyl figure, a testament to his enduring influence and creativity in the world of collectibles. With upcoming releases like Werewolf by Night and Stranger Things Demogorgon, James continues to captivate audiences with his dynamic designs and passion for storytelling through toys.