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December 13, 2021
7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Join PSNWA for a presentation by Brian McCarty, a distinguished toy photographer and founder of the California-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization War-Toys.
While comfortable in the studio, Brian’s preferred approach is to integrate toy characters into real-life situations through the use of forced perspective, working in-camera with minimal postproduction. McCarty creates his photographs by sometimes traveling to exotic locations, including active war zones. His work has been exhibited by museums and universities around the world. His unique photography has driven millions in sales; as well as, earned wide recognition and praise within the art world. His first monograph Art-Toys was published in 2010 and featured collaborations with toymakers and designers who also use toys as mediums for artistic expression.
Brian McCarty’s independent series War-Toys launched soon after in 2011. Since then, he has collaborated with children from Iraq, Syria, Israel, the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and Lebanon to tell their stories, working through local and international NGOs and UN agencies.
Brian’s work was used as a billboard in Times Square and stolen by ISIS for online propaganda. Brian understands how much toys shape and reflect our culture.
Distinguished Photographer: Brian McCarty
Brian McCarty is a photographer, art director, and producer known for his unique work with toys. His work has been exhibited by museums and universities, acquired by prominent collectors, and covered by The New York Times, Washington Post, Guardian, Wired, Al-Jazeera, Reuters, Buzzfeed, Huffington Post, and countless other publications. Since graduating Parsons School of Design in 1996, Brian has worked for and with some of the biggest names in the toy industry, including Mattel, Hasbro, Disney, Cartoon Network, and Nickelodeon. He’s appeared on CNN, PRI’s The World, PBS News Hour, BBC World Service, and CBC’s Q. Brian has earned a Fulbright, grants from the U.S. Department of State, and indirect support from the NEA. He has lectured at the Carter Presidential Library, New School, Sesame Workshop, American University of Beirut, and TEDx.