In the intersection of artistic innovation and emerging technology, artist Bryce Nicholson launches Dreamies, a Kickstarter campaign that integrates collectible toys with AI features. The project, scheduled for launch on January 29, 2026, features Elliot as the inaugural dream guardian aimed at assisting individuals with improved sleep and dream interpretation. The campaign sets a funding goal of $8,500 CAD and limits each reward to 100 units, offering exclusive first-edition items such as toys, prints, and stickers.

Bryce Nicholson's artistic career started in elementary school with sales of charcoal and pencil hyperrealism drawings. Progression through oil painting led to current focus on toy design. A conversation during a Bali fashion show exhibition with Malaysian property developer Bryan Ho prompted reflection on broader appeal. Ho's inquiry about global marketability shifted Nicholson's approach from personal, introspective works to universally accessible creations.

Intense personal experiences with nightmares, sleep paralysis, and night terrors influenced the project's foundation. Childhood episodes involved vivid hallucinations during fevers, where formless entities appeared.

Maternal reassurance during those moments provided comfort. Inspiration drew from Henry Fuseli's painting "The Nightmare," which portrayed a tormenting incubus. Nicholson conceptualized an opposing figure: a protective, endearing companion.

Elliot emerged as a winged monkey-like creature characterized by fluffy blue fur, enormous shiny eyes, glossy red bubble cheeks, and tiny purple wings. Modeled after Nicholson's 8-year-old nephew James—described as rambunctious, rebellious, cute, and caring—Elliot possesses abilities to fly, turn invisible, and navigate dreamscapes to combat negative dreams. Users scan the QR code to engage in live conversations with Elliot, receiving advice for enhanced sleep and dream analysis.

The campaign aligns with current trends in the AI surge and collectible toy sector, exemplified by the Labubu phenomenon that generated widespread enthusiasm for whimsical figures. Dreamies positions itself as a wholesome application, addressing disconnection among children who hesitate to share concerns with parents or peers. The initiative facilitates venting, questioning, and potential restful sleep through interactive companionship.

Early responses indicate strong interest. A mother expressed confidence that her daughter would engage extensively with Elliot. The child has adopted "Mr. Sandman" by The Chordettes as a favorite, inspired by Nicholson's promotional videos using the song as a theme. Plans include three additional Dreamies upon reaching the funding goal.

Dreamies represents a departure from self-focused art toward global benefit. Nicholson views the project as transformative, converting personal nightmares into communal positive experiences. Backers access this innovation through tiered rewards. Pre-launch activity on Instagram and YouTube generates increasing attention, positioning Dreamies to foster imaginative engagement among participants.

Support options include:

Kickstarter page at https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/dreamies/dreamies-guardians-of-the-dreamweave,

Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/therealdreamies

YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@therealdreamies.

The campaign invites exploration of AI-integrated collectibles for enhanced dream interactions.

Media Contact
Company Name: Dreamies
Contact Person: Bryce Nicholson
Email: Send Email
Country: Canada
Website: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/dreamies/dreamies-guardians-of-the-dreamweave