From Labubu to Molly and the ever-growing world of collectible blind boxes in between, POP Mart has become a pop (pun intended) culture phenomenon, turning adorable characters into must-have collectibles and sending fans on treasure hunts for their next favorite find.
Now, another one of the brand’s beloved characters is getting its own New York City moment: Skullpanda is taking over Manhattan with a free, immersive pop-up experience designed to help visitors slow down and switch off.
💗 The History of SKULLPANDA
Created by Chinese concept artist and designer Xiong Miao, SKULLPANDA quickly rose to fame within POP MART’s collectible lineup due to its bold, avant-garde aesthetics, streetwear influences, and deeply emotional themes.
Unlike traditional figures, SKULLPANDA explores complex human feelings—ranging from moodiness and vulnerability to quiet introspectiveness—giving the character a distinct voice in the designer toy space.
The “Off Mode” series belongs to THETA Skullpanda, a plush-focused sub-brand within the universe that translates Xiong Miao’s creative visions into soft plush products and everyday lifestyle goods.
Each figurine and plush in the series represents familiar moments of needing a mental break, featuring figures like Not Now, Mute Mode, Low Battery, Stay In, Soft Chaos, Mask Off, Break Time, Slow Down, Stay Chill, Rest Day, and Self Mode.
🗽 The NYC Experience
Designed as an antidote to New York City’s non-stop pace, the “Off Mode” pop-up transforms 423 W. 14th Street into a haven where guests are encouraged to step away from daily obligations and recharge without pressure.
- Three Immersive Rooms: Visitors walk through three thematic spaces engineered to evoke the emotional beats of the “Off Mode” collection—encouraging guests to slow down, embrace the mess, take off their social masks, and tune out external noise.
- Special Guest Appearance: Artist Xiong Miao will appear in person at the grand opening on October 16 to celebrate the launch with fans.
- Exclusive Pop-Up Shop: The experience concludes with a retail space carrying limited-run merchandise, including U.S.-exclusive releases, special-edition figurines, and THETA plush collections unavailable elsewhere.
✨ Know Before You Go
- 📍 Location: 423 W. 14th Street, Meatpacking District, New York, NY 10014
- 📅 Dates: October 16, 2026 – November 30, 2026
- ⏰ Hours: Sunday–Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Friday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- 🎟️ Admission: Free to the public (walk-ins welcome; early arrival recommended for grand opening day)
- 🎨 Special Guest: Artist & creator Xiong Miao will make an appearance at the Grand Opening on October 16
- 🛍️ Exclusives: On-site popup shop featuring U.S.-exclusive collectibles and THETA Skullpanda plush series
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