Local Man turns Styrofoam into Art
Muskingum County- Most people look at a block of Styrofoam and see nothing more than packaging material, but one Zanesville artist sees it as something entirely…a tiny dungeon hallway or a fantasy landscape, Bryan Lynn’s work brings action figures to life in ways you have to see to believe.
Lynn the creative mind behind Karvar Kustoms, handcarves and paints incredibly detailed dioramas, props and accessories designed for action figure photography and display. Using mostly Styrofoam, he transforms simple materials into highly detailed, lifelike backdrops.
“Honestly I just kind of fell into it,” explained Lynn the Owner and Founder of Karvar Kustoms. “I started collecting different kinds of toys and stuff like that and then I started seeing pictures online of people taking pictures in front of these big, elaborate setups and I thought it was photoshop at first, and then I found out that that was a thing, that you can actually make stuff.
What started as a hobby six years ago quickly turned into something much bigger, so big that word spread about his craftmanship and his creations began making their way around the globe. His work has been sold and displayed in thirteen different countries.
“It’s something I never expected. When I started making stuff, I didn’t think I’d have ten people like what I do. I have stuff in production pictures now, been lucky enough to be able to meet WWE Wrestler, Ethan Page and he’s got some of my stuff now. Just having people around the world that own pieces of my stuff. I have stuff is 13 different countries and it’s just very overwhelming,” said Lynn.
His craftmanship has even made its way into professional productions, including an action figure box design. His work has been featured in multiple YouTube videos and he frequently sets up booths at comic conventions, where his work catches the eye of collectors and enthusiasts. Lynn encourages others to step out of their comfort zone because you never know where it can take you.
“Don’t be afraid to try something you’re not used to doing. You know, at one point I never touched foam, I never 3-D printed anything. It’s very daunting at first. But, try it. You might surprise yourself and it’s always good to have a creative outlet.
Whether you’re a collector, a photographer or a fan of out-of-the-box craftmanship, Karvar Kustoms is putting Zanesville on the map in the world of action figures.
If you want to see more of Lynn’s work, check out Karvar Kustoms on Instagram.
