Today we unveil the unbug-lieveable 1,111 element LEGO® Ideas 21342 The Insect Collection set! These intricate insects are a tribute to nature and were originally conceived and submitted by our Spanish LEGO Ideas fan designer José María Pérez Suero aka hachiroku24 in 2021.
The new LEGO Ideas The Insect Collection - the 50th product LEGO Ideas set - includes each insect on a separate display based on aspects from their natural habitat. The Blue Morpho butterfly sits on a branch in the South American Amazon Rainforest. Next to it lies a buildable flower with a honeybee hovering over it. Move across to Central America afterward and build the longest beetle in the world, with the male Hercules beetle sitting atop a decaying log. Its wings can be removed, and the shell closed to allow two display options. Finally, perched on a thin branch from an Asian forest, a Chinese Mantis prays on a small seven-spotted ladybug hiding amongst brick flowers.
Talking about his inspiration for the design, José María says: “I studied science and fine art and have always been fascinated with the intricate details of the natural world. Also, as a lifelong LEGO fan who has come up with a range of new set ideas before, I find inspiration for new builds through my hobbies, which include photography and nature.” José María has shared more of his thoughts about his design and how it came about in his 10K Club Interview.
Talking about developing the set, Federico Begher, Head of LEGO Product Group comments: “When we saw José Maria’s brilliant design, we knew it would be an instant hit with our fans! The intricate design is testament to José María's impressive academic background, and passion for photography and nature. His excellent designs enabled our team of talented designers to really capture the essence of these remarkable creatures, from the colours to the structure and size. Every detail has been carefully crafted in LEGO bricks, resulting in a one-of-a-kind LEGO collection of three insects from around the world in one set. We are thrilled to share this magnificent build with the world and cannot wait to see the joy it brings to fans.”
José María's incredible idea was brought to life as an official LEGO Ideas set by LEGO Design Manager Jordan David Scott and Graphic Designer Kirsten Bay Nielsen.
Find your zen
To celebrate the launch, we have created Green Noise, a new nature-inspired ASMR playlist with LEGO clicks and sounds reimagined as the unique sounds of each insect using Foley techniques.
Created in partnership with award-winning and Emmy-nominated Foley artist, Sanaa Kelley, an expert in creating sound effects out of everyday items, Sanaa has recreated each insect’s own unique sounds in nature using the iconic LEGO brick. Showcasing their beauty and shining a new light on insects around the world, the playlist is inspired by the three extraordinary insects from the new set: the Blue Morpho Butterfly, the Hercules Beetle, and the Chinese Mantis. Each track is up to 45 minutes long and created entirely from the flutters, clicks, and snaps of LEGO bricks and packaging from the new set alongside a variety of Foley techniques.
Stream the LEGO Green Noise playlist
Availability & Pricing
The LEGO® Ideas The Insect Collection will be available globally via LEGO Stores and at LEGO.com/insects from 4th September 2023 for LEGO VIPs and 7th September for all at the recommended retail price of $79.99 / €79.99 / £69.99 (*EURO pricing varies by country. For regional prices please visit LEGO.com/shop).
Official Images
By
hasanjensen