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Fishermen, Inc. Brings "Fisher of Men" Figures to Life in Plastic
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Jesus enters the toy industry... Who doesn’t know Jesus Christ? Ok, so that’s a bit of a personal question; but Fishermen, Inc. is hoping to harness people's recognition of this holy and historic icon when it introduces a new series of figurines based on various interpretations of Jesus. As a religious icon that Christians and non-Christians immediately recognize, there’s no doubt followers of the faith will instantly identify with one or more of the various figures in the series, which feature names such as ”I am Faith” and ”I am Strength” (below).  Eric Dyson, President of Fishermen, Inc. was kind enough to answer our questions as we prepare to add Jesus to our toy shelves and better understand this new toy company and its goals. Figures.com: Thank you for taking the time to answer a few of our questions. Tell us a little bit about Fishermen, Inc. and what it is you hope to accomplish in making Jesus action figures. Eric Dyson (ED): We are a company built on inspiration: A reminder to stay inspired and to inspire others. Our mission is to introduce thought-provoking, intriguing products for the 21st century. Figures.com: Why Jesus? ED: The image of Jesus is an icon, and Jesus himself the most influential person who ever lived. Whether you believe in Him or not, you recognize the image of Jesus and His impact on mankind.  Figures.com: Who do you most want to sell your figures to and why?ED: The message behind all of our “I Am” figurines is that whatever your path in life, Jesus can be an inspiration for you. The figurines are for anyone who can appreciate these modern-day interpretations of Jesus in (their) lives today. Figures.com: According to Christian belief, idolatry is a sin. Do you consider people buying action figures of Jesus idolatry? ED: The figurines are not to be worshiped or used for worship. Like a cross hanging from your neck or a “WWJD” bracelet on your wrist, these collectibles are personal reminders of your own beliefs or inspirations. Figures.com: Please explain the nine different Jesus figures you're releasing. ED: Well, to start with, there are actually 11 figurines in our initial line. We will also be shipping “I Am Courage” which features Jesus as a firefighter, and “I Am Invincible” which has Him as a race car driver. Figures.com: What’s the meaning behind the figures? ED: Some of the figurines are meant to make you smile, others will be cause for reflection… No matter what, we hope they will all inspire. We sincerely hope part of the beauty, wonder and appeal of the figures will be that they will have tremendous personal relevance for those who buy them or receive them as gifts.  Figures.com: Where did the ideas for the different versions of Jesus come from? ED: As you can imagine, there were many, many ideas for figurines. We selected these initial 11 modern-day realities in trying to represent a wide cross-section of lifestyles. Figures.com: What do you say to people who think your figures are sacrilegious? ED: There is nothing disrespectful or irreverent about what we have done. We recognize the role Jesus plays in the lives of so many - including myself - and so the utmost care is used in developing the images we create. Nothing is ever taken lightly… Still, we also know there will be some who have personal religious traditions that might keep them from accepting our vision. That is unavoidable and we respect the opinions of any detractors. Figures.com: Of the eleven different versions of the figure you're releasing, which is your favorite and why? ED: Well, “I Am Freedom,” the Biker (bottom), is near and dear to my heart, since that’s the idea that initially inspired the project. But I also love “I Am Hope,” the Panhandler (below) since that really sends the message that Jesus is in all of us.  Figures.com: What's is the significance of the white coat, which we see on every figure of Jesus, no matter what He's doing? ED: The “I Am” figurines mesh together the traditional view of Jesus with modern-day realities. When we searched for those elements that make an iconic image of the Christ, we decided on his beard, hair, crown of thorns and…well…his long robe. Figures.com: Do you plan to expand the line and if so, do you plan to add other Biblical persons or continue with different styles of Jesus? ED: Certainly we hope our success will allow for the release of additional collectible figurines. Who knows… We are always getting requests for a “Rock Star Jesus.” Figures.com: What inspired you to create the “I Am” figure line in the first place? ED: The origin of the line came from a personal inspiration. My father’s passing was a very trying time of my life. While grieving and reflecting, I received a strong message from God. I had a vision of Jesus Christ, on a motorcycle, riding across America (and) I realized that no matter what, He was always with me. This message from God became the cornerstone to starting Fishermen and launching the “I Am” line…  The Fishermen, Inc. “I Am” line of Jesus figures will soon be available at secular and non-secular specialty stores nationwide. Accessorized figures – like the ”I Am Strength” – Bull rider (at top) and the ”I am Freedom” – Motorcyclist (above) have an SRP of approx. $35.00 while the non-accessorized figures – like the ”I am Faith” – Football Player and the ”I am Victory” – Soccer Player will have an SRP of approx. $25.00. For more information, check out WeAreFishermen.com or email Fishermen, Inc. at Info@WeAreFishermen.com. What do you think of these figures? Are they idolatry, art or something else? Tell us what you think and ask Fishermen, Inc. your own questions HERE.
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