Skullpanda: The Cosmic Storyteller of Designer Toys

Introduction: What Is Skullpanda?

In the fast-growing world of designer toys, Skullpanda has become a global sensation. Known for its “dark cute” aesthetic, Skullpanda stands out from the typical kawaii style dominating the collectible market.

This figure is not only a toy but also a cultural icon, bridging fine art, fashion, and youth subculture.

Behind Skullpanda is the Chinese artist Xiong Miao, a reclusive creator with a deep background in art, fashion, and CG design. Her vision transforms Skullpanda into a cosmic traveler, embodying freedom, individuality, and self-expression.

The Creator: Xiong Miao’s Artistic Journey

Skullpanda is inseparable from the story of its creator.

• Fine Arts Roots – Xiong Miao studied art from childhood, laying a strong foundation for her unique style.
• CG Industry Recognition – She became a respected concept artist in China’s gaming industry, earning acclaim for her environment art in Cang Qiong (苍穹).
• Independent Studio – Later, she founded Bei Zhai Studio in Shanghai, which evolved into Lazy North in Chengdu, focusing on art toys and youth culture.

Her path was not about following trends—it was about building a personal language of art.

The Birth of Skullpanda

Skullpanda began as Xiong Miao’s personal exploration before her collaboration with Pop Mart.

• A Rebellious Spark – She wanted a character that felt freer, more decisive, and less confined by “cuteness.”
• Pop Mart Partnership – After being discovered at the Beijing Toy Show in 2017, Skullpanda launched its first blind box series Secret Ancient Castle in 2020, selling out instantly.

This partnership transformed Skullpanda into a worldwide collectible IP, connecting with young fans across Asia, Europe, and North America.

Skullpanda’s Design Philosophy

Every detail of Skullpanda is rooted in symbolism:

• Astronaut Helmet – Represents protection and endless exploration of the universe.
• Twin Planet Buns – Styled as two spheres, symbolizing cosmic balance and harmony.
• Exaggerated Features – Wide eyes and full lips give Skullpanda a unique personality, while reflecting traits from Xiong Miao herself.

Beyond the design language, Xiong Miao also integrates her love of fashion styling into Skullpanda.

Each blind box edition explores playful outfit choices—sometimes futuristic, sometimes Gothic, sometimes inspired by historical dress. This passion for fashion ensures that every series feels like a runway show in miniature, where wearability and imagination merge.

Inspirations: Gothic, Fashion, and Fine Art

Xiong Miao’s inspirations give Skullpanda its unique aura:

• Gothic Fashion – Her personal dark-romantic style translates directly into Skullpanda’s mysterious presence.
• Fashion Enthusiasm – She is deeply interested in styling and outfit pairing, which explains the wide variety of costumes Skullpanda wears across collections.
• Artistic Influences – She cites Egon Schiele and other expressionist works as major inspirations.
• Hands-on Craftsmanship – She often visits factories, ensuring that every sculpt and paint detail meets her high standards.

This devotion to balance between art, fashion, and production ensures Skullpanda’s authenticity and collectability.

Skullpanda Beyond Toys

Skullpanda is not just a collectible—it’s a form of cultural storytelling.

• Themes of Exploration – Each series explores new ideas, from inner warmth (Temperature) to surreal imagination (Dream-Eating Animals).
• Cultural Roots – Some editions draw inspiration from Chinese classical poetry, like the Plum Blossom series.
• Fashion Language – With every outfit, Skullpanda showcases how styling can be both playful and philosophical.

👉 If you’re interested in more insights about fashion and pop culture, check out our Pop Culture insights board.

Skullpanda’s Global Legacy

As one of the most successful designer toys in the world, Skullpanda represents more than a trend. It is a cosmic storyteller, bridging East and West, art and fashion, philosophy and play.

For collectors, Skullpanda is not just a blind box figure—it’s a reminder of individuality, freedom, and the power of creativity.

From the art studios of China to global shelves, Skullpanda continues its cosmic journey, inspiring fans to imagine new roles, new lives, and new worlds.

💡 And here’s a sneak peek: at the end of October, we will be launching our very own SaaS tool to support fashion entrepreneurs and creators. Stay tuned—it’s going to be an exciting addition to the creative journey!