Mondo curates nostalgia at Wondercon 2025

Summary

At WonderCon, Hector from Mondo shares the creative journey behind the company's nostalgic and high-quality collectibles. Mondo, known for its posters, has expanded into vinyl records, toys, and more, blending art and fandom. Hector discusses the process of creating collectible figures, from fan-inspired designs to detailed execution. He highlights the evolution of technology like 3D printing, which has enhanced Mondo's ability to produce intricate, high-quality products. He also reflects on Mondo's dedication to connecting with fans through limited-edition items and charity efforts, emphasizing their passion for making art that resonates with fans of all ages.

Takeaways

• 😀 Mondo started as a poster company and has expanded into high-end collectibles, including vinyl records and toys.
• 😀 The creative process at Mondo involves brainstorming in a 'nerd den,' where ideas for new collectibles often stem from the team's own fandom and love for pop culture.
• 😀 Mondo focuses on creating high-quality, detailed collectibles that appeal to both nostalgia and adult collectors, providing more intricate versions of childhood toys.
• 😀 The design of Mondo’s collectibles, like their Ninja Turtle figures, aims to enhance the original designs with more detail and better materials, such as soft vinyl.
• 😀 Mondo’s vinyl records are not just about the music; they are crafted as unique art pieces, often including special features like pop-up artwork or special packaging.
• 😀 Mondo’s focus on nostalgia extends to their vinyl releases, like the Batman soundtracks and Coraline, which offer both visual and audio experiences.
• 😀 Mondo’s collectibles, such as the 48-inch wingspan Shira mount, are designed to appeal to fans who want larger, more impressive displays of their favorite characters.
• 😀 Mondo's posters elevate niche pop culture properties by collaborating with renowned artists, creating limited edition, screen-printed posters that feel like true works of art.
• 😀 Technology advancements, such as 3D printing and digital sculpting programs like ZBrush, have greatly improved the quality and detail of Mondo’s collectibles.
• 😀 Mondo is not just about selling at conventions; they also focus on offering exclusive and limited edition items through their website, ensuring that fans can connect with the brand online.

Q & A

What is Mondo's approach to curating fandom nostalgia?

Mondo curates fandom nostalgia by focusing on high-quality collectibles and products that reflect popular IPs like DC, Batman, Turtles, and others. Their process often starts in a 'nerd den,' where their team brainstorms ideas, brings them to life, and creates items that both they and fans will love.

How does Mondo's team decide which IPs to work with for new products?

Mondo's team collaborates by discussing ideas they’re passionate about, often inspired by their own nostalgia and interests. They explore various IPs, and sometimes, external creators like Kevin Eastman suggest exciting new concepts. The team also listens to fan feedback and considers popular franchises.

What makes Mondo's collectibles stand out from others in the market?

Mondo's collectibles stand out due to their attention to detail, unique features like multiple heads or fabric clothing, and high-quality craftsmanship. The figures are designed to evoke nostalgia but are enhanced with modern details, making them appealing both to collectors and long-time fans.

How does Mondo balance nostalgia with the needs of adult collectors?

Mondo's collectibles are designed to appeal to adult fans by enhancing nostalgic items with modern quality. For example, their Ninja Turtle figures pay homage to original designs but feature updated details like better paint, more articulation, and a more refined tactile feel, making them suitable for adult collectors.

How has Mondo's approach to vinyl evolved over time?

Mondo has evolved its vinyl offerings by not only producing soundtracks but also turning the physical records into collectible art pieces. They focus on creating visually stunning albums, sometimes incorporating unique elements like pop-up art or innovative packaging to make the experience more immersive and special.

What makes Mondo's vinyl releases more than just music?

Mondo's vinyl releases are carefully designed to be immersive art pieces. They collaborate with artists to create visually stunning packaging, sometimes incorporating innovative elements like pop-up designs or limited-edition artwork, making the vinyl not just a record but a collectible item that enhances the music experience.

Why is the 'Alien' franchise a significant part of Mondo's product line?

The 'Alien' franchise is significant for Mondo because it connects with fans who grew up with the iconic series and 90s toy lines. The opportunity to create high-quality, nostalgic Alien collectibles allows Mondo to tap into that passion while adding their own artistic take, such as the Mantis Alien figure, which draws from the unique 90s toy era.

How does Mondo incorporate new technology into its product development?

Mondo utilizes advancements in technology, such as 3D printing and digital sculpting programs like ZBrush, to enhance the level of detail in their collectibles. These technologies have allowed them to create highly detailed figures and intricate designs that would have been difficult or impossible with traditional methods.

What is the significance of Mondo's exclusive items at conventions?

Mondo’s exclusives at conventions, like WonderCon or San Diego Comic-Con, are an important way for the company to connect directly with their fans. These items are limited-edition releases that allow Mondo to showcase upcoming products and offer unique collectibles that fans can only obtain in person.

How does Mondo handle the challenge of creating highly intricate products that may be too expensive or impractical to mass-produce?

Mondo embraces risk and is willing to create unique, high-cost items, even if they’re impractical for mass production. For example, they’ve discussed creating large-scale items like a giant Castle Skull or intricate figures that push the limits of feasibility. While not all ideas come to fruition, Mondo is open to experimenting with bold concepts.