Packaging Magic

Keiichi Tanaami was a multi-genre artist from the 1960s as a graphic designer, illustrator, video artist and fine artist. He was 9 years old when Tokyo was bombed during the Great Tokyo Air Raid of World War II in 1945. Images seared into the back of his mind at this time would become major motifs in his art works.

Designing the collector packaging for this project allowed Concannon Art to explore Tanaami’s rich history and the captivating worlds within his work.

Throughout the process, we constantly asked ourselves how Keiichi Tanaami would approach the design, and we were thrilled to receive approval from him and Mattel.

To elevate the packaging for this premium collectible we designed a special set up box that even though closed, would reveal a peek into the art of Tanaami. From there it was a matter of curating appropriate art pieces from the massive Tanaami archive.

Keiichi Tanaami’s archive of works is so vast it became difficult to know when we should stop creating. There is a desire to show every possibility. The select layout features iconic characters peeking out from their amazing surreal worlds. The design team at Mattel Creations selected more art to adorn the Magic 8 Ball itself. The project was complete and enjoys a special place on CA shelves.