MY LITTLE PONY PROJECT: 25 PONIES FOR 25 YEARS
In 2005, Hasbro Toys made a significant impact by presenting "The Pony Project" at Milk Gallery in New York City.
This innovative initiative transformed the iconic My Little Pony into contemporary art. For the occasion, 18-inch figurines were reimagined and customized by nearly 50 renowned female artists and designers. Each unique creation, infused with artistic sensitivity, celebrated the beauty and diversity of pop culture. Moreover, 50% of the proceeds from the sale of these pieces and additional merchandise were donated to the Association of Hole in the Wall Camps, an organization dedicated to helping children with severe and life-threatening illnesses.
In September 2008, to commemorate My Little Pony’s 25th anniversary, Hasbro, in collaboration with Thunderdog Studios, presented the "MY LITTLE PONY PROJECT: 25 Ponies for 25 Years" at the Chelsea Art Museum in New York.
This one-night-only exhibition showcased 25 customized creations by designers and media personalities. The 18-inch figurines were later auctioned on CharityFolks.com to benefit Give Kids The World Village, a non-profit organization that provides week-long vacations in Central Florida for children with life-threatening illnesses and their families.
The journey continued in 2012 with a global dimension and new inspiration.
The "MY LITTLE PONY Project" was revived for a year-long global celebration as part of My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic. This charitable art exhibition marked the project’s first world tour, featuring international talents in iconic cities such as Los Angeles, New York, and Tokyo. This revival was not only a showcase of contemporary creativity but also an invitation to rethink the relationship between art, pop culture, and social engagement.
A Fusion of Art, Fashion, and Community Engagement
“The Pony Project” stands out for its ability to bring together seemingly distant worlds—an iconic children’s toy and contemporary art—to create a powerful and accessible dialogue. By inviting talented creators to redefine My Little Pony’s image, Hasbro and its partners paved the way for a new form of artistic expression, where fashion, design, and illustration merge for a noble cause. This initiative proves that art can be a catalyst for social change and a way to unite communities around universal values such as friendship, solidarity, and resilience.
Legacy and Impact
The success of these editions illustrated how creative and committed partnerships can contribute to important social causes. By financially supporting organizations dedicated to helping sick children, “The Pony Project” leaves a legacy that goes far beyond mere artwork. It reminds us that each artistic project, when driven by a humanitarian vision, can inspire and transform lives.
Conclusion
From 2005 to 2012, “The Pony Project” embodied a resolutely modern and charitable artistic adventure. By reinventing a pop culture icon and linking its image to a noble cause, Hasbro successfully bridged the gap between art and social engagement. This project remains an inspiring example of how creativity can serve as a lever for the greater good while opening new perspectives for contemporary artistic expression.
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