I don’t have anything against ice-sculptures. Amazing
artists create stunning translucent sculptures. Sadly these creations are
temporary, lasting only a few hours. You rarely see the artist at work, and
pictures never do the piece justice. Recently I went on a quest to find a more
unique and permanent way to bring logo artwork into events.
During my research I came across a few recreations of
company logos used at events. At closer inspection I learned they were made of
LEGO block. Having won a LEGO building competition many years ago I was
intrigued. My search led me to Mariann Asanuma, a former Master Model Designer
for LEGOLAND California.
Mariann found her fascination with LEGO at an early age when
she received her first set at the age of six. Born and raised in the San
Diego area, she is a self-taught LEGO artist. When LEGOLAND opened in
Carlsbad, CA in 1999 she fought hard to get her dream job. It took her 4 years
to prove herself and get the coveted position. Visiting the park, you will
recognize some of her handiwork. She worked on the life-size pirate, a four
foot long lady bug, the Miniland Las Vegas sign and many others.
Mariann continued her Lego journey becoming the world's
first female freelance LEGO Artist and LEGO instruction author in early
2007. She has authored two books “How to Build a Round Ball with Square
Bricks!” and “Beyond the Ball”. Now Mariann dedicates herself to designing and
building custom LEGO models, speaking and special events. She was
commissioned by Warner Brothers Interactive to design a mosaic for their
”LEGO Batman the Video Game” Launch Party hosted at the Natural History Museum in
New York City in September 2008. Google hired Mariann to create their
Chrome logo for their 4 year anniversary. The sculptures reflected the
client’s needs and have become more enduring centerpieces of the events they
were built for.
Using LEGOs to create your event centerpiece may not work
for all events. It is however an interactive, creative and investment
outlasting any ice sculpture. Interested in incorporating LEGOs into your
event? Learn more about Mariann and her services here.
See pictures of Mariann's creations here.
- Al Wynant
