Illustrator Roman Kreal’s “Phan-Dumbz” toy line uses familiar merchandising tactics to critique the ways true crime media commodifies the suffering of victims and their families. Inspired by seedy monetized podcasts like “My Favorite Murder” and the collectible toys of the artist’s childhood, this thesis project includes handmade resin figures, blind bag packaging, printed promotional materials, and even a fully recorded fictional podcast to increase your immersion into its cynical world. Roman’s illustrative work has been displayed at the Delaware College of Art and Design’s student exhibition and his short films have been featured in “Night Mind’s Candy Bowl” online film festivals. Roman plans to continue his artistic pursuits while teaching English abroad in South Korea.
