The Starry Night marks Lego's evolution from toy to design object. Tatler Homes chats with the designer who realised this masterpiece—and suggests six other decor-worthy sets
There was a time when building Lego was a pastime only enjoyed by children but about two decades ago when Lego began making licensed sets inspired by hit movies like Star Wars and Harry Potter, it was adult fans who made up the bulk of consumers. Lego is now the world’s largest and most profitable toymaker with adult fans like Ed Sheeran and David Beckham boasting openly about their love for it.
While Death Stars models and Central Perk dioramas will always have a place among collectors, Lego has also been producing sets that go beyond being display items and could easily be incorporated into sophisticated home decor. The latest set that has captivated fans who exist at the intersection of Lego enthusiasts and fine art lovers is The Starry Night set, based on Vincent van Gogh's 1889 post-impressionist masterpiece.
Apart from the 3D painting, the set also includes a mini figure complete with a paintbrush, palette, easel and mini painting on a printed tile, which can be attached to a hanging arm to show him painting the scene. The intricate set can be displayed standing upright or even hung on a wall.
The set is based on a design by Truman Cheng, a Lego fan based in Hong Kong, who submitted his set design on the Lego Ideas platform. Lego also created the set in conjunction with the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) in New York, where the original work is currently located.
Soren Dyrhoj, a Lego design master, was tasked with translating Cheng's vision. He explains that the process took only two to three weeks because Cheng's build was "absolutely amazing".
Dyrhoj also clarifies that while no new elements needed to be manufactured for the set, new decorations such as the moon and stars as well as new brick colours needed to be made to convey Van Gogh's dreamy sky. Not to mention the Van Gogh mini figure designed by Nikki Ayumurti Hartomo.
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