ICCC works hard to bring together the creators who designed, sculpted, produced, and sold the vintage toys we all grew up with. For ICCC 2022, we’re pleased to announce that former Kenner master sculptor Nancy Flanigan will be on hand to meet fans and discuss her role in possibly the greatest vintage toy line of all time: Star Wars.

Nancy began working for Kenner in 1975 after earning a BFA from the University of Cincinnati. Kenner was still housed in their old factory building on Sycamore Street. As a Sculptor Trainee, Nancy started in the Model Shop, where models and molds were made to create working samples of toys for Toy Fair. This intro to toy production was invaluable knowledge for a sculptor.

In 1976, Kenner moved to offices in the Kroger Building. Nancy joined the sculpting department in January of 1977. The department then employed four sculptors. That spring, the “Star Wars” film was released. Thus began an exponential need for talent in product development: designers, engineers, and sculptors. Many freelance artists were used for the first Star War figures and the deadlines for the sculpts were “yesterday.” Staff worked on changes to many of the Star Wars figures as they were sent in. Nancy sculpted the Hoth Rebel Trooper, Rebel Commander, and the first Wicket. She was mostly assigned girls’ toys, such as Strawberry Shortcake: Apple Dumpling, miniatures, and dollhouse. A variety of Care Bears, Tree Tots, Sea Wees, and more.

After leaving Kenner in 1983, Nancy freelanced for Hasbro, Playskool, Fisher-Price, Tyco, Jim Davis' Paws Co., Those Characters From Cleveland, The Franklin Mint, Ashton-Drake, Effanbee Doll Co., Lee Middleton Dolls, Grannyworld, and most recently Super7. Currently, she enjoys creating in several artistic mediums: painting, drawing, sculpting, and more. Nancy spends time with her grandsons, sometimes creating art. She lives in her hometown of Indianapolis, Indiana.

We are pleased to welcome Flanigan to ICCC 2022. ICCC 2022 will be held April 29-May 1, at the Sheraton Music City resort in Nashville, TN. Tickets are on sale now.