I really don't believe that Mr Nelson or any manufacturer has to apologise for the poses or the subjects his chooses for his figures. Last month T. Gunn launched a captive ready to be decapitated by his captor. Is this over the top or too much ? Just realistic figures and something that happened million of times. We must not forget that we, the collectors , ask for realism. We all know the photo of a Japanese officer ready to cut if the head of an Australian (I think) prisoner. If Mr Nelson decides to make this as part of his FoB series, would this be over the top and must explain or apologise once more or it would be just stunning? I don't know. I just collect and I don't criticise.
All the best
Thanasis
The forum is a place to comment, suggest, recommend, debate and criticize toy soldiers. As long as it is done constructively and respectfully what's the problem? Some people are defensive and thin skinned when it comes to their favorite maker. Sometimes makers are too sensitive when someone criticizes or comments on an item, choice of range or release timing. I personally find it interesting and enjoyable to hear collectors express their feelings and suggestions about the products we all collect.
As Andy has stated many times there are many different types of collector with different tastes and interests. If you don't like something don't buy it but also make your opinions heard so the makers and collectors can have some input.
We all know that our hobby, passion or business comes with some controversy or misunderstandings. People who have viewed my collection sometimes ask if I am glorifying war or trivializing acts of violence. I think of my collecting as acknowledging historical events, appreciating the artistry of the products and sometimes a link with my childhood. I have used toy soldiers and dioramas as a teaching tool for my children and grandchildren and young students in general.
As far as the subject matter, it is a personal choice. I won't collect Nazis on parade and poses that depict decapitation, torture or gruesome wounds.
I think there is a line when it comes to showing your collections to children and some more sensitive adults (e.g. families of soldiers who suffered wounds or death).
Showing a US cavalryman being tortured turns me off and I would never show it to my grandchildren.....very hard to explain why mankind can be so cruel. Eventually they will learn about the atrocities performed throughout history. Would collectors purchase a "Joan of Arc" burning on the stake? I think there are limits to what we try to depict in a toy soldier.
My reaction is the same for all forms of art.
Now all this said, Andy and other makers feel that each collector makes his own choices.
Like I have said before K&C is a leader in our hobby and I have collected their figures from the very beginning (over 35 years I think). The vast majority of their products are appealing to me and I appreciate their diversity and creativity. Heh, there are some items I don't prefer and a few that make me question their thinking.
Andy is not shy about answering our concerns and again that is what this forum is for.
