Wizard of Paws Gallery
Enter Into the Wizard of Paws’ Toy Makers Studio and Office
Artist Jamey Marler flew in from Oklahoma to paint the garage door. Mike loves the Wizard of Oz so the Wizard of Paws was a perfect theme.
For the last 34 years of my career I worked in a “normal” office space with beige walls, industrial carpet, oak wood desk, and my toy creations scattered here and there. I had pieces of art I had collected throughout the years but they too were scattered and the space was messy and cluttered.
As my life was transforming to new paths, new opportunities and new toy lines, I decided it was time to transform my office so it would reflect what I do on a daily basis and speak into the passion I have for fun, art and creativity.
Those passions were inspired in me by Walt Disney and my favorite movie, The Wizard of Oz, and the story of Alice in Wonderland because they bring out the kid in us and pour child-like fantasies into our hearts thereby unleashing creativity and fun! I wanted to transform my studio office into that type of an environment.
I retained the services of Brett Carter, a famous local designer and a good friend. I told him I wanted a place to represent and honor Walt, the Wizard and Alice. I gave him no other directions and I left the designing to him.
Mike in his office.
I actually did not get involved in approving the design elements of the office and although I saw the wallpaper and paint going up – all the furniture pieces were purchased without my approval. I trusted Brett to unleash his creativity in the space and I never feared what the final reveal would show us.
And when the big reveal day came for my wife, Charlotte and I to see the results, we could not find the words to describe our feelings. We were in awe, delighted, stunned, mesmerized and all those words that make you feel happy inside.
I’ve known Brett for 25 years and I had faith in his abilities to decorate my studio office. His expertise and creativity is unique and he far exceeded my expectations and created a new space that has helped me transform myself too.
My mind was cleared, I established new work habits and I woke up every morning eager to get to the studio. The space opened up more of the creativity inside of me and we have since shared the Studio for others to use for business meetings and creative brainstorming sessions. The joy on their faces when they walk in and see where they will be meeting always makes me feel great on the inside! Sharing our blessings is what it is all about.
In an article by Jacob Morgan on Forbes titled “How the Physical Workspace Impacts the Employee Experience,” he states, ‘…employee well-being is strongly correlated to employee productivity and performance and even a small shift in well-being can have a dramatic impact. Perhaps one of the largest factors of well-being is the physical workspace. Employees who enjoy and like the environments they are a part of will be more engaged, productive, happy, and healthy.’
I couldn’t agree more with Jacob and I hope – IF you have the opportunity to change your workspace -- you will do it.
Remember, we are on the quest to find out “Why The Greatest Ideas on Earth Will Never Be Invented℠” Maybe a simple change in your environment will open up new creative pathways and new ideas just might be invented!!
PUP-corn Machine – This is the perfect depository for miniature Pound Puppies and when children come to visit, they take home their favorite one from the machine.
Mike named him Rudolph and every year he is dressed up to celebrate the Christmas season.
In 1995 Mike asked artist Liza Hass to paint the wood cabinets with The Wizard of Oz and Alice in Wonderland. They were used as inspirational pieces by Brett during his design work on the project.
Two more Pound Puppies in Mike’s office are the original 1985 creations.
Artist Alan Robertson felt Pound Puppy paws certainly had to lead the way to the studio door.
Mermaids represent Love and we have created other toys with the Mermaid theme. What’s not to love about Love?
Brett, the designer with Mike in his lobby.
In 1999, Mike Commissioned Artist, Susi Saxx to create a piece with all the world’s favorite childhood friends such as Peter Pan, Alice in Wonderland, Humpty Dumpty and others. She surprised Mike by adding in Pound Puppies and Pound Purries.
Mike purchased this artwork while visiting friends in Sarasota, FL. This colorful bird spoke to Mike, made him feel good and knew it would fill his space with children’s laughter when they saw it.
A fun conference table with gears to keep the attendees minds moving and creating new opportunities and new products.
Alan Robertson, a friend and local artist carved this out of styrofoam. Each tooth was handmade out of wood.
This is the first logo used in the United States when Pound Puppies debuted in 1985
Creative Director, Mary’s Office
A couple of pound puppy friends hanging out in the warehouse. Imagine when the lights go out at night and all the toys come out and play!
Brett found this mirror and hung it lengthwise to create a special effect and use it to display items so they can be seen front and back
During the big reveal these big red chairs stood out. The color, the size and the statement were perfectly chosen by Brett.
Puppies everywhere… of course.
Brett installed a Collage Wall of different collection pieces Mike had gathered throughout his career
When Mike and Charlotte walked through the lobby doors, they were greeted with these beautifully designed orange chairs and felt it was the perfect lobby seating for a toy maker’s business.
When the hired actor didn’t show up for an event, Mike had to dress up as a Pound Puppy himself. He didn’t mind!
Cats are also welcome. This giant Pound Purry sits beside Mike’s desk in his office.
This is the entrance to the warehouse/event center. Take note of the wicked witches broomstick curtain rod.
For more information about Brett Carter – contact him at cbrettcarter@yahoo.com