In this episode of Toys on Tap, we dive deep with Shane, the creative force behind “Hints and Spices,” a name born from a university project that now defines his hidden-detail, genre-blending toy design ethos. From glow-in-the-dark surprises to cultural nods in resin and vinyl, Shane takes us on a journey from Adelaide’s meat pies to Japan’s Wonderfest. Hear how anime like Evangelion and Kaiju toys transformed his tastes and led him to create toys like Wani Fant and the uniquely local Frog Cake figure.

We explore Shane’s transition from retail to industrial design, the mentorships that shaped him, and the challenges of the Australian art toy scene. Whether it’s landing a Tokyo grant or opening his own Character Works Club, Shane balances creativity, culture, and career in a way that’s both inspiring and g ...