The train collection is unique in that it features graffiti art from actual artists. Along with the approximately 1:131 scale replica will be a trading card – one side depicting the train art, and on the other some information, if available, about the artist. Up to 12 different graffiti artists will be utilized in the line.
Maisto is working with Enamelized brand and Roger Gastman, who’s unique understanding of the graffiti art movement gives him unprecedented access to the artists whose work will be utilized by Maisto. “I am excited to bring my network of graffiti artists to Maisto for such an exciting project. ” says Gastman, who has written nearly a dozen books, produced two films, and launched two different magazines, including Swindle, which was launched with pal Shepard Fairey of Obey Giant fame. “Graffiti keeps becoming more and more mass and diluted. To be able to use authentic graffiti and tell the stories of the artists in this train collection is a step foreword in broadening the culture.”
“Deep in most inner cities, there is an artist with a collection of spray cans and a vision of getting up on trains that go across the country.” says Ralph Benitez, the influential Art Director who has launched Playerz, Pro-Rodz, and G-Rides lines of die-cast collectibles for Maisto. "This collection pays tribute to those artists that did”
The Maisto brand name was registered in 1990 by May Cheong, a vertically integrated manufacturer based in Hong Kong. The company has been manufacturing die cast for over 30 years, have over 11,000 employees worldwide and manufacturing facilities covering over 2,000,000 square feet.