Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Johannes Rillo. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Johannes, appreciate you joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

My toy photography evolved from a lifelong passion for collecting toys to discovering a new creative outlet on Instagram. My journey from dabbler to artist, using editing apps to enhance my visual storytelling, showcases the power of experimentation and exploration in finding one’s artistic viewpoint Embracing that artistic side and transforming it into dramatic photography is a testament to my creativity and dedication to this craft. It’s inspiring to see how a simple hobby can lead to a fulfilling and professional creative path.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Since 2014, I have immersed myself in the captivating world of toy photography. A lifelong passion for collecting toys seamlessly transformed into a creative pursuit that ignited my artistic spirit. In the realm of art, perception is a deeply personal experience, and for me, it manifested through the lens of my camera. As I honed my skills in manipulating depth, tone, and lighting, my creativity blossomed, allowing me to craft images that resonated with my vision.

My collection includes a range of action figures and diorama pieces that serve as integral components of my visual storytelling. Coupled with the editing tools on my phone, these elements enable me to bring my imaginative concepts to life in each photograph. Over the years, my work has garnered recognition on various platforms, including features on esteemed sites like Voyage Phoenix and acknowledgments from renowned names such as Neca, Mezco, and McFarlane Toys.

A significant milestone in my journey occurred in 2016 when I showcased my creations at Raw Phoenix, followed by a memorable exhibition at Conception Art Collective in 2018. These opportunities to present toy photography in the context of art shows were not only personally gratifying but also groundbreaking for the toy community at large. Witnessing the fusion of toy photography with traditional art forms was a defining moment that underscored the artistic merit and creativity inherent in this evolving medium.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

Throughout my artistic journey, I have encountered moments of creative stagnation, commonly known as artist blocks. These obstacles, whether stemming from professional pressures or personal challenges, have taught me a valuable lesson: creativity cannot be forced. Instead of pushing for immediate results, I have found solace in immersing myself in inspirational sources, such as science fiction movies, horror films, and relevant TV shows that resonate with my artistic vision. By allowing my creative juices to flow naturally, I have discovered that my best work emerges organically.

My resilience is rooted in the philosophy of continuous learning and growth. I draw upon insights gleaned from past photography endeavors, embracing failure as a profound learning experience rather than a setback. Failure, in its essence, serves as a catalyst for improvement, prompting me to adapt and refine my approach. Reflecting on my previous work, I often revisit and reframe old concepts, infusing them with newfound perspectives and techniques.

As an artist, the journey of self-expression is a dynamic and ever-evolving process. Through my art, I have found a medium to authentically convey my creativity and emotions. For those embarking on a similar path or exploring the realms of toy photography, I emphasize the importance of embracing failure as a transformative learning opportunity. Let setbacks fuel your growth and propel you towards realizing your artistic vision, never allowing fear of failure to hinder your pursuit of what you love.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most fulfilling aspect of being an artist or creative individual lies in the act of creation itself, a deeply personal and authentic expression of one’s unique perspective and abilities. My artistic journey is driven by a profound sense of self-discovery and originality, rather than a quest for external validation or emulation of others’ work. Each piece I create embodies my distinctive interpretation and vision, a reflection of my innermost thoughts and emotions.

The true reward for me comes from the process of creation and the intrinsic value of my work, transcending the superficial metrics of social media likes or external approval. It is a testament to my dedication, creativity, and the genuine passion I invest into every project. The joy lies in witnessing the culmination of my efforts, in seeing my ideas materialize into tangible artworks that resonate within me.

I consider myself incredibly fortunate to possess the ability and opportunity to share my creations with the world, each piece serving as a testament to my unique artistic voice. As I look forward to future endeavors, I am excited to announce my participation in an artist panel at Phoenix Fan Fusion in May 2024. This upcoming opportunity not only signifies a new chapter in my creative journey but also a chance to connect with fellow artists and enthusiasts, further enriching my artistic experience and growth.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @ToyRelic