Shawnimals is a character design studio that believes in the power of unbridled, astonishing, ridiculous joy.  Each Shawnimal comes with its own story that starts in the Shawnimaland universe, but is then given over to you to continue each unique creature's adventure in your own universe. Our huggable friends appear as designer toys, lifestyle accessories, apparel, comic books, video games, and as anything that fosters companionship. We believe that the best artistic experiences are participatory and affordable, and that – with an open heart – friendship can happen between you and just about anything.  Even facial hair. Check them out here! Currently the Shawnimals team is...

Shawn Smith – Creative Director and CEO
Shawn Smith is the creative force behind Shawnimals, and started the company before he even knew it by watching cartoons, drawing pictures and playing video games as a kid.

Fast forward to a job at EGM magazine as a game reviewer, Shawn decided to leave and focus on his first love: Art. While Back to School like Rodney Dangerfield, he wondered what to do with the countless sketchbooks on his shelf, filled with hundreds of unused characters. Shawnimals were born shortly after from Shawn's pop culturally-inspired aesthetic: Simple, compelling character designs, strong narratives, and a healthy dose of humor.

With partner Jen Brody and its staff, Chicago-based Shawnimals has grown quickly from its humble beginnings, now with a Nintendo DS game based on its Ninjatown brand, a number of plush and vinyl toys, and much more. Note: It's okay – it's only a Nerf gun. :)

Jen Brody – Production Manager and QC
Jen Brody was born and raised in the Chicago 'burbs where she grew up embarking on all kinds of creative endeavors.  During college in 2001 she met up with future husband/Shawnimals creator, Shawn Smith.  Two years later, Shawn and Jen were able to turn Shawnimals from a fun hobby/college art project into a full-fledged, honest-to-goodness (yet still fun) business that they continue to run together.

Montgomery Perry Smith – Production Assistant
A plush suturer by trade, Monte has this to say about his work here at Shawnimals:  "Shawn Smith owns my hands on Mondays and Wednesdays – sometimes on Tuesdays, rarely on Fridays – and it's all very formal, signed in blood and everything." None of this is true, except for the Monday and Wednesday part.

Eric Uchalik – Print Design & Concepting
Always known to have a toy in his pocket since childhood, it is not a surprise that Eric is still happily obsessed with small plastic creatures of all kinds. Having graduated from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago with a focus in Visual Communication, he balances his day between graphic design, mold making & casting toys, and petting small fuzzy cats. Give him a moment and he'll talk forever about his beloved work-in-progress Super Fungo.

Remmy Brody (aka - Rembrandt VonDogimal Brody-Smith) – Mascot / Recruiting Coordinator
Remmy is the newest addition to the Shawnimals family, acting both as a mascot and our Recruiting Coordinator. As soon as a new resume comes into our inbox, or someone knocks on the door, Remmy knows if they're a good fit. If they're not, then BITING commences. And lots of it. So beware. She is also part Dutch Shepherd, which is apparently a pretty awesome kind of dog, especially for police work. We lucked out, since we found her at a rescue. We also love her, and her snuggling ways.

Interested in working at Shawnimals? While we currently do not have any paying positions available, from time to time we accept interns who are looking to learn more about designer toys and such. Curious? Let us know.