On the contrary, I AM still a collector, though I like to think of myself as a "smarter" collector.
There are collectors who like to collect-it-all and I enjoy seeing someone with the passion to do that. That's not to say that because I collect fewer items that I'm any less passionate than they about collecting - No-No! My passion for collecting remains. I just choose to do it in a smaller fashion - a "focus collector."
Focus collectors choose one area, or character, of interest and zero in on that thing, or things. In my case it's the plural, "things."
I'm not talking about collecting-it-all either....let me break it down.....
I have always focused on true vintage (1977-1985) Star Wars Kenner items because that's what I grew up with. I saw the original Star Wars in it's opening week in 1977 and began my journey with The Star Wars Early Bird Kit of four figures as soon as it was released. To this day I am still in ownership of those figures, as well as the full range of Kenner Star Wars figures that were ever released, and they are all in very good shape, with just about each having their original weapons.
I'm very proud of these figures because they bring back so many great memories of my childhood.
I also have a focus related, as you might know, to the late great Ralph McQuarrie - the amazing conceptual artist, and matte painter, from the Star Wars Trilogy. Those items include action figures, books, trading cards, art prints, etc.
Ralph's work inspires me each and every day!!
Lastly, I have a focus on R2-D2 items. R2 is my chosen "character focus." Why?
Well, I consider R2 to be a great hero in Star Wars. He is also a character that immediately makes you think Star Wars when you see him. As a kid seeing Star Wars in the theater, I was drawn to R2! He made me smile. He is my mascot of "the Wars!"
Do I collect EVERY R2 item that I see? No, no, no.
I like to collect R2 items that either make me think of special times from the past, or an R2 that is different / unique looking in some way, or that is an interesting piece from some special time/event in my life that I might find fun...or something like that. This is to say that I will make it a part of my collection -- IF I LOVE IT!!
Completist? No way!
Collector? You bet!!
Speaking of a cool new R2 item that interests me, that I find unique...There is a new item set to arrive from Funko later this year. There 2013 series of "POP" bobble-heads has been shown. In the series is a cool looking bobble of R2 that I am sure to be picking up!....
Until next time,
Collect what you love!
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