Our next Trading Card Spotlight features Lori Mangione who currently is displayed on card number 3301, from the Superstars of 2020 Collection. She is also on card number 3264 with her husband Michael. Lori is the artist behind “Silly Rabbit Crafts”. Her pixelated artwork has been seen since 2012. With over 250 shows attended, Lori has made thousands of gaming items such as Mario, Donkey Kong and Yoshi characters. Her talent is not limited to video games as she can create almost anything with her beads. The Simpsons, Star Wars and Transformers are others created by Silly Rabbit Crafts. Lori also teaches monthly classes at her local non-profit Marketspace, as well as working with children with Autism and Social Anxiety. For more information you can check out her Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/SillyRabbitCrafts/ or contact her at sillyrabbit4crafts@gmail.com.
When did you get the call to do work at Disney, and what was your reaction?
I received the call from Disney in October 2018, and when the lady mentioned she was from Disney and looking for Silly Rabbit Crafts, I was certain they were going to try and shut my business down, that I must have upset the mouse. She then proceeded to tell me how much her team loved my work and had been on their mind as a new addition for Disney for quite a long time.
Did you ever think when you were younger you would be on a video game trading card?
I am honored to be a part of Walters’ collection, I could never imagine the path my life has brought me on, and I cannot wait to see what my future will unfold
Have you ever received any media coverage for your appearance on the Trading Card? If so, where?
We received a live recording from Free Play Florida when we were presented my card.
When did you start Silly Rabbit Crafts?
I started Silly Rabbit Crafts in 2012 as a hobby after being laid off from a customer service job due to outsourcing and was able to provide for my Daughter while searching for employment.
When did you first meet Walter Day and where was it at?
I met Walter in 2014 at Free Play Florida, in Orlando Florida.
What is your favorite city you visited to display and sell your art?
I travel a lot for my Art, but I always have a soft spot for Atlanta.
If you could describe Walter Day in one word, what would that word be and why?
Inspiring! His character and knowledge and his outlook on life has always been so inspiring.
What type of art do you prefer the most?
As a video game lover, and growing up on 8bit, I love seeing modern day pictures turned into 8bit.
What is your favorite item you have worked on in your career?
I have a Mothra art piece that looks like an Entomology project and I received a standing ovation in front of over 200+ people.
What video games today do you play and what are your favorite genres of games?
Nintendo based games will always be first in my book, so I have been enjoying the switch. But I also enjoy PlayStation and Xbox. I have been diving into Red Dead Redemption 2, and Mortal Kombat 11 recently.
What does it take to be an 8-bit creation artist, and what advice would you give a person today who would like to get into the industry?
The more you explore your imagination and explore different tricks and techniques, so you find what works for you. Never hesitate to revisit older art pieces and see what you create with more experience and growth. It is incredible to remember where you came from and remind you why you need to keep pushing yourself each day.
Are video games today aimed mainly at children, adolescents or adults?
I believe with the number of games being produced today we have a healthy range of audience. Even for those who do not have many hours on video games can enjoy the Tetris 99!
Do you believe some video games are too violent and lead to violence in America today?
I do not believe video games lead to violence. There is violence all around us.
Which company today, in your opinion, makes the best games and why?
It may be unpopular opinion, but I truly enjoy Blizzard, and have been a WOW player for much longer than I’ll admit. I enjoy the environment, and interaction with others and forming your teams for raids. Plus, choosing your side, it definitely a great option!
Who is your favorite video game character of all time and what makes that character special?
I will forever love Bowser. I think he is a big misunderstood character and I wear his face on a necklace almost every time I leave my house. He is just looking for love!
Are you still involved with art today, and what role do you play?
Although the pandemic has stopped many of my show appearances, I am still working on art in my studio daily!
What do you see artists doing in the next 20 years?
I love watching how VR is advancing and even making its’ way into art museums and such. It will be mind-blowing to see the merging of VR and art in the upcoming years!
This is one of an ongoing series of articles based on the Walter Day Collection of e-sports/video gaming trading cards – check out more information at thewalterdaycollection.com.
Todd Friedman is heavily involved in the retro gaming community and has co-promoted the Video Game Summit in Chicago, IL for the past 16 years. He also has published 2 books and written for various different gaming magazines including Old School Gamer.
