Michigan Toy Soldiers hosts W. Britains - Meet the Artists Event

On November 22, The Michigan Toy Soldier Company hosted a W. Britains - Meet the Artists event. This event gave collectors the opportunity to meet the creative minds behind the products of one of the world's premiere miniature producers and attend demonstrations on sculpting and painting

In late 2005, the William Britain toy soldier company, founded in London in 1893, was purchased by First Gear, Inc. an Iowa based producer of very high quality replica work and construction vehicles. A team of three Detroit area collectors and artisans were brought on board immediately to lead the rebirth of this iconic brand.

Richard Walker, formerly of Grosse Pointe Farms, was hired as General Manager to oversee all aspects of the business in the United States and United Kingdom.

Kenneth Osen, formerly of Livonia and most recently of Bruce, Michigan came aboard as the chief designer and sculptor for W. Britain.

The man charged with bringing these miniature masterpieces to Technicolor life was David Youngquist, a Royal Oak native and gold medal master figure painter for the last twenty years.

If you are interested in attending any of Michigan Toy Soldier's special events check out the schedule!