Custom sixth scale figure artists bring together sculpting, painting, tailoring and miniature props to create characters that feel distinctive on a shelf. A convincing likeness is only part of the work: the fit of a jacket, the scale of a printed pattern and the expression in a finished head sculpt all contribute to the result.
This selection highlights five artists and teams featured by One Sixth Society. The original showcases below illustrate their work; they are examples to explore, rather than a list of currently available commissions or stock.
Rainman Artwork
Rainman’s character choices range from cult-film favorites to elaborate multi-piece displays. The showcase brings together Willy Wonka, an Oompa Loompa, the Elephant Man and the Dude, showing how different costumes and body proportions can support a recognizable sculpt.
For a closer look at the thinking behind the figures, read our interview with Rainman Artwork. It gives the artist room to discuss the work in his own words.
Beto Matali
The work associated with Beto Matali and Lu has a strong horror focus. Freddy Krueger, Jason Voorhees and Leatherface appear in this showcase, with distinctive costumes and surface detail doing much of the storytelling.
Look beyond the likeness when comparing horror figures. The texture of a sweater, the wear on clothing and the scale of a mask can be just as important to the overall character.
K.Jun Artwork
K.Jun’s showcase spans very different film characters, including Forrest Gump, Raoul Duke from Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas and a figure from I Saw the Devil. Their clothing, expressions and props give each one a separate identity.
Custom projects can involve several contributors. Check the credits for the sculpt, paint, tailoring and accessories when learning about a particular release, rather than assuming one person made every component.
Cheung Kinmen
Cheung Kinmen’s work includes characters and performers with especially recognizable silhouettes. Here, Rocky Balboa’s hat and jacket, Teen Wolf’s varsity outfit and Freddie Mercury’s yellow stage jacket show how costume and likeness work together.
Viewing a finished figure at normal display distance can be as revealing as studying a close-up. The head, body, clothing and pose need to read as a coherent character.
CultKing
CultKing is a collaborative name associated with Denny Kim and a range of contributing artists. The selection shown here includes Vincent Vega, a western gunfighter and David from The Lost Boys, illustrating the team’s interest in memorable film characters.
For a collaborative release, look for the credits and contents of the exact edition. A painted head, a clothing set and a complete figure may be offered separately or combined, depending on the project.
Before buying a custom figure
Use these showcases as a starting point for research. Confirm who created the piece, what is included, whether the photographs show a completed example and what condition the actual item is in. For new commissions, get the scope, payment terms and expected process in writing before committing.
Our guides to sculpted versus rooted hair and custom cape makers explore two more details that can change the presentation of a sixth scale figure.
You can explore the process through our kitbashing guide, custom figure painter profiles and custom Pee-wee Herman figure feature. The artist profiles are historical; confirm current commission availability directly with the artist.
Custom commissions and mass-produced designer toys are different categories. For an example of the latter in the current catalog, see Hot Toys Space Worker Baby, Brothersfree 25th Silver Galaxy Version; it should not be mistaken for one of the individual custom works discussed here.
