In conjunction with the opening of Kaiju vs Heroes: Mark Nagata’s Journey through the World of Japanese Toys, toy designer and collector Mark Nagata and Marusan toy company President Eiji Kaminaga will participate in a discussion about kaiju toy history, the world of Japanese toy collecting, and their companies’ histories (Nagata is the founder of Max Toy Company). The Marusan toy company created some of the first vinyl kaiju and hero toys of the 1960s and these toys make up a significant part of Nagata’s collection. The conversation will be moderated by Brad Warner, who worked for 15 years at Tsuburaya Productions, the makers of the Ultraman television shows. Warner is now an author and teacher of Zen Buddhism.

Following the discussion, Mark Nagata will sign copies of Toy Karma, an accompanying book by and about Nagata, as well as a 13" x 19" print (10" x 17" image size) featuring a kaiju and hero image by toy photographer Brian McCarty, who will also be signing the print. The book is $24.95 and the print is $50. Both can be purchased the day of the event.

This program is free for Museum members and included with general admission for non-members. Please purchase admission at the front desk prior to the event. RSVPs are strongly encouraged using this online form.