Copyright © 1997-2024 Nicholas D McKim - Nicco Starr
Lego® IDEAS Project | Nicholas D McKim | 2024 Collection
The GREY Alien | ReconPod | LEGO® IDEAS | by Nicholas D McKim | March 2024
What is it:
What is it:
Although the earliest accounts of “grey alien” encounters here on earth, may not ever truly be known. I remain an affirmative believer in their existence. I proudly present you with my own creation (MOC) of the ever-elusive Grey Alien. My take on the legendary grey alien is a celebration of this other-worldly creature; that has long-captured the minds and imaginations of novelists, broadcasters, movie writers, entertainment seekers, and more – for centuries. At just over 2 feet tall, this show-stopping LEGO display, not only gives fans of aliens, a chance to create, articulate, and explore - showcasing their very own “grey”; but it also comes with its own reconnaissance mission pod (ReconPod).
This construction figure features a fully articulated, 19 in. / 48.26 cm tall, Grey Alien body – that dazzles with glitz, intrigue, and glowing magnificence. Perfect for LEGO play, packs plenty of creative curiosity, and has undeniable jaw-dropping display appeal. This MOC also includes a 25 in. / 63.5 cm tall, reconnaissance pod, for secure displaying of the Grey, for playing, and for of course – a vehicle in which to travel, while the Grey seeks new homes and civilizations to explore.
Why did I build it:
For as long as I can remember, I have been fascinated by the stars, planets, space exploration, and most importantly – aliens and UFOs! From comic books, novels, movies, and more – I have been spellbound since I was very young at the possibility of their existence. Frequently pondering what it would be like to encounter the so-called “grey”. Would they be friendly, would they be scary, would they be tall, or might they be small?
I often wonder, how they would get on and off of our planet without being tracked by radar. Perhaps they have smaller, less detectable means of transportation to and fro, throughout the galaxy. It often seems that UFOs, though elusive themselves, are caught frequently by cameras and news media reports these days; creating speculation and potential upset. I thought to myself, what if the greys had a single-figure way in which they could travel around the galaxy; much like that of an escape pod, or something of that nature. A reconnaissance pod of sorts.
I have literally, always just wanted a Grey Alien figure or model, to call my own. To stare at, to be fascinated by, to imagine and create beside, and to know that one-does, truly exist – and it is in my very own home! I have scoured the globe looking for just the right model, figure, or build – and have yet to discover what my heart and imagination have been really looking for. And so, I decided it was time for me to create my own LEGO Grey Alien figure and ReconPod – and let my imagination go wild!
Why do I believe it would make a great Lego set:
After nearly 2 months of development (day-in and day-out, eight hours a day, and even on weekends); this is probably the longest I’ve ever worked on any LEGO project, in my 46 years here on earth. From specialized custom photography, graphics techniques, and most importantly the build-magic itself – I literally could not be more proud of, or happier with the resulting set!
This would make a spectacular LEGO set because it creates a story. A story of interstellar intrigue. A story celebrating a global, scientific, and multi-generational icon. Of mechanical, mysterious, yet organic and approachable nature. A story of true space-bound wonder. As humans venture further and further into space, and seek a better understanding of our place in the Universe; I knew that this would be an ideal time to share such a creature feature, modeled in LEGO magic! I feel that it is important for LEGO dreamers and builders to get their hands on the creative possibilities that this set would provide, not only for fun and play, but for historical interest, scientific wonder, and futuristic pioneering as we venture unto the stars with our imaginations.
I wanted this set to have the spooky and eerie vibe – that I have been fascinated by, and that has captured my imagination from films, television shows, and tales of old. But I also wanted this creature from the stars, and its travel pod to have an organic familiarity to it. A charm, whimsy, and to invoke a friendly and inviting energy as well. Something that we could all relate to and enjoy.
I also wanted to incorporate little bits and pieces of stories that I’ve heard over the years. Pieces from Sci-Fi that have ignited curiosity and creativity in my mind. Such as the greys, and their relation to the building of the Great Pyramids in Egypt. As well as the ideas of alien biological exploration, and new lifeform discovery; black triangular UFO sightings, and even the meaning of the Universe itself (42).
This would make an iconic and superb set for Sci-Fi, alien, and of course LEGO fans; futuristic dreamers, and other-worldly curiosity builders. This LEGO set includes a ton of Sci-Fi nuances that fans of grey aliens and space travel will be thrilled by! Let us go wild with our imagination, while we explore the features that this 2442 piece set unveils:
The Grey Alien figure features:
19 in. / 48.26 cm (height), 6 in. / 15.24 cm (width), 6 in. 15.24 cm (depth)
· Fully reflective chrome exterior (where some might regard its color as “grey” or “gray”)
· Full body, hands, and feet articulation for posing, play, and display
· Black steal eyes and translucent skin sections
· Removable frontal / parietal cranium compartment lid
· Exposed brain / featured mechanical and biological detailing
· Glowing, other-worldly heart / chest cavity
· Glowing / enhanced joints and internal biological membranes
The ReconPod features:
25 in. / 63.5 cm (height), 7.5 in. / 19.05 cm (width), 8 in. 20.32 cm (depth)
· Full frontal window display for interior / Grey Alien visibility
· Fully hinged ReconPod cover for featured interior access
· Glowing technology, lights, gizmos and whatnots
· Hoses, and cables, for ReconPod-life sustainability tech
· Air vents – because our Grey needs to breathe through filtered air
· Umbilical hoses – of which our Grey connects with the two above intergalactic control chambers
· Diorama-style intergalactic control chambers (with views of the cosmos, earth, reconnaissance map plans, and of course the UFOs that are to accompany our Grey)
· Custom body-fit, interior bedliner – so that our Grey can enjoy the comforts of home while traveling through the galaxy
· Gold solar energy collection paneling (top and bottom, and hints throughout)
· Back vertebrae spinal column, and ribcage, with lung-tanks and glowing fluid – because not only is the Grey Alien figure, organic (but so is the ReconPod) of which it travels in, and connects with for rejuvenation and travel communication technologies
· Concealed lower-deck storage compartment for reconnaissance sample and lifeform collection; as well as tool stow-away
· Six hyper-galactic rocket boosters to propel our Grey throughout the Universe and beyond
· A small collection of must-have travel items / tools for our Grey:
Black / glowing triangular UFO
Gold / glowing pyramid
The meaning of the Universe (42)
Glowing biological probe and medical device
Hand-held, alien lifeform growth tubular chamber
In Closing:
My wildest dreams of having my very own Grey Alien figure and ReconPod have finally been realized in creating this LEGO MOC - for myself, for alien fans, and for the LEGO world in whole! This set -in my own opinion- is a true masterpiece, work of art, and serves as an iconic display of mystery, fun, and intergalactic intrigue! There is no doubt that there will be a ton of interest from LEGO fans around the world – wanting to add this set to their collections! Glowing proudly and eerily in my office, and keeping me company while I imagine great things – I hope that this LEGO Grey Alien figure and ReconPod, can one day make its way into your own home, life, and heart! Thank you for playing with me.
The Crown Jewels of Great Britain | LEGO® IDEAS | by Nicholas D McKim | May 2024
What is it:
What is it:
By royal decree I proudly present to you, my take (MOC) on the legendary “Crown Jewels” of Great Britain. This 2597 piece (16 in. / 40 cm tall, 9 in. / 22 cm wide) LEGO crown display, is a stunning celebration of a lavish world of old – dating back to year 959-975. An homage to the age of luxe regality, and sustained royal traditions that have stood the test of time.
This build features a modular style construction, providing the royal LEGO enthusiast, an in-depth exploration of the ornate details, craftmanship, and incredible beauty which is solemnly and respectfully captured in this masterful work of jeweled art. The Crown Jewels display features undeniably sparkling and shimmering magnificence, which is discovered in three impressive stackable sections (representing the head, the heart, and the soul) of its bearer.
Each gem, jewel, and stone placement, and every precious articulated detail has been thoroughly researched, meticulously crafted, and strategically engineered to be represented in LEGO; in order to respect, honor, and pay grandiose tribute – with tremendous authenticity and regard – of one of the world’s most famous, beloved, and cherished, pieces of wearable regalia. It is my dream that this legendary display of royal history, can bring you as much joy, and wonder, as I enjoyed - while creating its opulence.
Highlighting the majesty of the illustrious St. Edward Sapphire (1649), Cullinan II Diamond (1907), Black Prince Ruby (1367-1415), and the Stuart Sapphire (1688-1838); while also including a reverent hidden homage and memorial tribute to the late and great Diana, Princess of Wales (1961-1997) – this show stopping Crown Jewels display is sure to be the conversation piece, of all conversation pieces - to adorn your LEGO collection!
Why did I build it:
For almost 3 decades now, I have been fascinated by the splendor of stately affairs. The baroque era, Kings and Queens, the Royal Family, and all things boasting regality, have often perked my curiosity of fancy. In honoring my own sustained lifetime delusions of grandeur, I have often ventured to collect or at least ogle crowns of various designs, whenever they have crossed my path. I have yet, however, to find just the right fit, the right look, and the one that satisfies my deep desire to be surrounded by the finer things (royal accoutrement specific).
While I have explored and enjoyed observing crowns o’plenty hither and dither, including wonderfully designed, prior iterations – I decided that it was time to decorate my home with a LEGO (MOC) Crown Jewels of my own design, and illustriously creative interest.
I remember my very first introduction to the Royal Family was experiencing the shocking loss of the late Diana, Princess of Wales (1961-1997); while the television news and world were on standby in silence, and mourning, awaiting the understanding and explanation of her sudden passing. As a result of this international headline exposure, I became immersed in learning about the Royal Family, regality, history, and the formalities of the grandiose royals, while of course the Crown Jewels themselves; and I became hooked. – I myself, may or may not have been a blueblood ancestor of the Royal Family, in another life or so, but I may ne’er know. For enticement purposes, let us just hope it is true...
Why do I believe it would make a great Lego set:
Over the years I have loved seeing differing takes on The Crown Jewels of Great Britain worked out in LEGO magnificence – however, I wanted to create a display that was near, dear, and exemplary in my own heart and creative design mind, and so, here it is – in all its (MOC) lavishness! This display not only celebrates the Royal Family, Diana, and sumptuousness – but it is also a seriously stunning piece to behold. The luminous stones, gems, and metallic regality, adds glitz and glamour to any setting!
Alluring in its presence, I know that LEGO lovers of all ages, as well as the affluent decorator, will love, cherish, and relish this iconic and posh piece of history. Just large enough to make a strong and dazzling visual impact in any placement, and just petite enough so as to not overwhelm; my LEGO Crown Jewels will spark interest, marvel, and pay historical respect to a simply superb artifact, of international wonder.
The Crown Jewels feature:
16 in. / 40 cm (height), 9 in. / 22 cm (width), 9 in. 22 cm (depth)
2597 pieces
3-section exceptionally adorned modular style build
In Closing:
I am thrilled beyond, to finally realize one of my most enduring dreams, of owning a genuinely remarkable replica of The Crown Jewels of Great Britain. And a build, out of none other than my perfectly beloved LEGO – well, I just could not ask for more! I hope that this LEGO IDEAS (MOC) brings a smile to your face, a glow to your heart, and a sparkle of astonished delight to your imagination. I too, hope soon, that its beauty can make its way into your own home, life, and happy building! Thank you for playing with me.
The VISITORS | LEGO® IDEAS | by Nicholas D McKim | February 2024
Let us go on an adventure together!
Let us go on an adventure together!
Once upon a real-life dream: While swimming near the shore of an island vacation destination... the sounds of waves crashing, children laughing, and grownups, busy with relaxation – were suddenly paused, by thunderously booming storm clouds that quickly billowed. The clouds then parted gently as a whisper, and a wonder of all unbelievable wonders emerged. From behind the cloak of weather, somewhere, from out of this world beyond, a massive, geometric, orb-like spaceship -to my greatest bewilderment- unexpectedly appeared!
The vehicle glided cautiously and quietly, across the sky above, with terrifying amazement! The Visitors -as I called them in my dream- seemed to pay little to no mind to those people, of the tiny island vacation spot below. They stopped by, only to say “hello,” to work on their spaceship's repairs, and to make new friends while experimenting with Earth’s gravity!
New friends, and new dreams, are always welcome!
The VISITORS: Modular Spaceship, features all the fun and curiosity that one could ever ask for, especially from somewhere beyond the stars! This model features enticing geometric twists and turns, which could only be engineered in another galaxy! The VISITORS’ spaceship feels a little bit spooky, a little bit whimsical, and a lot of sci-fi fantasy; offering imaginative modular stories that you will no doubt be thrilled by along the way!
Revealing surprises that elate; waiting around each corner, you will find creative wonders which include: a two-story interior, and four-part modular build, concealed stowaway storage compartments, porthole interior visibility, secret spaceship control consoles, Minifigure views of the cosmos, Earth, and the VISITORS’ home planet; spaceship repair tools, and your very own trio of otherworldly Minifigure cosmic-friends, to play with to your heart's content! What more could anyone ask for!?
A jaw-dropping 20-inch-long (50-centimeter) intriguing display piece; the curious conversations that the VISITORS' presence creates are a true blast-off with friends, family, and even coworkers! Offering everyone visual fascination, and plenty of hands-on playtimes. Your limitless imagination is truly destined for hyperdrive, with this dazzling extraterrestrial Lego model!
2580 pcs/pzs
Measures over 17 in. (44 cm) high, including landing stand and tentacle posing; 20 in. (50 cm) long; and 11 in. (29 cm) wide, including tentacle posing.
Lego Studs: 36 W x 62 L x 55 H
Ounces(oz): 99
Grams(g): 2794
Pounds(lbs.): 6
Big dreams - can build even bigger creativity!
This model is a play-filled memoir, of that fantastically wondrous dream adventure!
Cheers to the many Lego-building adventurers -big or small- who have their own dreams, be they tiny or tall. I hope that this intriguing build -of which I have placed much of my own intergalactic passion into- sets you off into the cosmos, on your own imaginative adventures! Be brave, be bold, build your dreams out with bricks, and marvel at your creativity… here on Earth, in outer space, and beyond!
For almost 40 years now, I have enjoyed the wonderfully boundless, spirit of curiosity that Lego has offered. My brick-building mind started swirling at an incredibly early age, with all of the possible impossibilities that the gift-of-the-brick, had brought into my life! It is now time for me to pay that magic forward!
From castles to dinosaurs, flower bouquets to outer space, iconic movie memories, and beyond - Lego's world of pure imagination, never ceases to amaze and delight! It has been a lifetime dream of my own to one day join the ranks of the talented family, of model designers... Without further ado, I am here to share the spectacular, of my own spin, on innovative and creative Lego magic–with you! May you find pure joy, enchantment, and intrigue in this model...
At 46 years young, I am still dreaming big, with many more exciting model builds to follow! Please hit that "Support" button now, and let's get the creativity party started!
iZEB46ly & iZEP24ly | LEGO® IDEAS | by Nicholas D McKim | February 2024
It’s a bird, a plane, it’s an iZEB-46ly!
It’s a bird, a plane, it’s an iZEB-46ly!
Your commuter Bus of the future is here!
Intergalactic travelers of the future, are sure to find ease, zipping their way through the galaxy and beyond, in this forward-thinking transit bus system of tomorrow!
But why in the Universe, would you need to take an iZEB - you ask!?
Don’t have your own space vehicle to get from point A, to point gleeb-glahr-glook? The iZEB-46ly is an innovative, economical, and eco-friendly approach to safe space travel, no matter which planetary environment its voyagers are traveling to.
Designed on Earth in 2024, by Scientist and Lego enthusiast, Nicholas D L McKim, the iNtergalactic Zero-Carbon Emission Bus will take humans, aliens, and a litany of lifeforms up-up-up & away, far beyond their wildest dreams! Comfortably traveling at 46 times the light year (ly) distance! That’s almost 9 million miles (14 million kilometers) per lightspeed second! But who cares about the math here folks - look at how beautiful this sleek piece of public-traveling showmanship is!
“Oh my goodness, tell us more!”
Personal belongings, alien-pets, plants, snacks, kids, and more, are easily stowed away in this luxury airbus fit for twenty-two! With wheelchair and spacewalk access – each commuter is safely accounted for, and couldn’t ask for more! The iZEB-46ly features a top-of-the-line magnetic stowaway system that stores all traveler gadgets, gizmos, and what-nots – away with ease, and comfortability for all.
Also featuring a dazzling chrome exterior, that reflects the skies, stars, and nebula through which it travels; this airbus fit-for-all is often mistaken for a cloud or a weather balloon on Earth’s surface, addressing and avoiding any concern of visual sky pollution. Not only does the iZEB-46ly feature an absolute Zero-Carbon Emission Bus propulsion system, but it is also so visually appealing, that planetary dwellers below, pay no mind, because of its non-intrusive appearance in the skies above.
The iZEB-46ly is made for everyone; the solo commuter, sticky-blob, and the entire family! It is a space-traveling dream come true.
But wait kids – there’s more!
The kids will love growing new lifeforms in the provided botany chamber, animal lovers have aquarium access to store their strange and unusual pet(s), and collectors will find peace of mind knowing that their invaluable(s) also have a place of stored honor – such as for rare eggs, diamonds, mineral samples, and more. Important mission associates, as well as leisure travelers, will enjoy peering out into the cosmos, as they commute hither and dither to the farthest reaches of the galaxy! Make new acquaintances, and get to your destination with ease -at hyper-speed- and in the safe comfort of a dual piloted, and eco-friendly airbus today!
“So - how do I get a ticket to ride along?” – you may ask!?
The iZEB-46ly is already privately in production, but needs your public “SUPPORT” to go live – so that everyone can access its splendor!
Operators are standing by… To reserve your seat aboard the new iNtergalactic Zero-Carbon Emission Bus, lovingly known by its creator as “ZEBiee” – click that “Support” button now, and let us get your journey to the stars, the planets, and your travel convenience – a “3, 2, 1 Go for Launch!”
1144 pcs/pzs
Measures 10 in. (26 cm) high; 5 in. (12 cm) long; and 13 in. (32 cm) wide.
Lego Studs: 40 W x 14 L x 33 H
Ounces(oz): 44
Grams(g): 1,257
Dreamers, builders & artists, this is for you! I am thrilled to share this dream-come-true. Thank you in advance for your incredible support!
Dreamers, builders & artists, this is for you! I am thrilled to share this dream-come-true. Thank you in advance for your incredible support!
The New Kingdom: NICCOTITI at LI MONH | LEGO® IDEAS | by Nicholas D McKim | February 2024
The NEW KINGDOM: “Niccotiti” - Now on Display!
C. 1370 BC (Thebes, Egypt) to C.1330 BC – the legacy of Niccotiti’s reign boldly lives on, in this display masterpiece (C. 1340 BC). Includes hand-tool-carved limestone, hand-painted naturally sourced dyes, and rich adornments of native gold. This historic piece draws affluent interest from around the world!
The NEW KINGDOM: “Niccotiti” - Now on Display!
The Le’gonian Institute & Museum of Natural History Invite you!
Witness and explore natural relics of the past, surrounded by ancient artworks of Amarna, Egypt. Feb.1 - Mar. 21, 2024, at LI & MoNH.
Step back in time, to revere natural art and historic medium use innovations; as museum visitors enjoy the sights & sounds of the ancient world. Uncovered in 1912; visitors will marvel at the 14th-century BC sculptor (Leg-omose)’s work, in this hand-crafted limestone bust -that forever captures the grandiose stoicism of Egyptian ruler- Niccotiti.
Natural limestone is one of many materials found in the ancient world, used to create works of precious and sustainably historic art.
Space Base: UN2030 | INFINITY LSS | LEGO® IDEAS | by Nicholas D McKim | May 2024
UN2030 | Infinity LSS (United Nations, year 2030, the Infinity Life Support System) Space Base.
For the greater half of my life now – I have dreamt of being an architect or designer of sorts – creating the spaceships and space stations of which humankind will voyage and dwell in, in the not so distant future. I am proud to share with you – the very tip of the iceberg in realizing this dream.
I am pleased to present you with MOC (my own creation), the UN2030 | Infinity (LSS) Life Support System (Space Base). I envision that this base would ambitiously wander the galaxies, floating through space, as well as finding its way eventually, to land upon habitable planet(s) somewhere deep in our universe.
The UN2030 ILSS, would be a scientific sponsorship collaborative project, put forth by the United Nations of planet Earth. It would feature dual dome encompassed city and industrial landscapes, housing, fusion based and solar panel self-sustaining energy efficiency, water, waste management, leisure and entertainment, science labs, agricultural cultivation and deep space research capabilities.
The shape of the UN2030 ILSS is that of the “infinity” symbol. An “eight” shaped symbolic reminder, of the flow of humankind’s future; forward, and then around and in on its self - in self-reflection, backward in reverence and regard to the achievements that have propelled humankind’s successes, and then ultimately forward again, toward new beginnings and new discoveries that are to be achieved along the path of our existence.
Spacewalks, leisure strolls through the parks, shopping, dining, working and researching, while surrounded by entertainment and nature, are just a few of the incredible amenities that the UN2030 | Infinity LSS would provided its inhabitants. I envision that this Space Base would be suitable, not only for gravitational stationary positioning - on land; but that it would also be capable of roaming the galaxies, when humankind might encounter the need to explore the cosmos further.
With more ideas and creations than all the stars in the heavens – I believe that anything is possible! I do hope that you enjoy this brief tour aboard my dream Space Base of the future! Be well and Happy Building!
UN2030 | Infinity LSS (United Nations, year 2030, the Infinity Life Support System) Space Base.
For the greater half of my life now – I have dreamt of being an architect or designer of sorts – creating the spaceships and space stations of which humankind will voyage and dwell in, in the not so distant future. I am proud to share with you – the very tip of the iceberg in realizing this dream.
I am pleased to present you with MOC (my own creation), the UN2030 | Infinity (LSS) Life Support System (Space Base). I envision that this base would ambitiously wander the galaxies, floating through space, as well as finding its way eventually, to land upon habitable planet(s) somewhere deep in our universe.
The UN2030 ILSS, would be a scientific sponsorship collaborative project, put forth by the United Nations of planet Earth. It would feature dual dome encompassed city and industrial landscapes, housing, fusion based and solar panel self-sustaining energy efficiency, water, waste management, leisure and entertainment, science labs, agricultural cultivation and deep space research capabilities.
The shape of the UN2030 ILSS is that of the “infinity” symbol. An “eight” shaped symbolic reminder, of the flow of humankind’s future; forward, and then around and in on its self - in self-reflection, backward in reverence and regard to the achievements that have propelled humankind’s successes, and then ultimately forward again, toward new beginnings and new discoveries that are to be achieved along the path of our existence.
Spacewalks, leisure strolls through the parks, shopping, dining, working and researching, while surrounded by entertainment and nature, are just a few of the incredible amenities that the UN2030 | Infinity LSS would provided its inhabitants. I envision that this Space Base would be suitable, not only for gravitational stationary positioning - on land; but that it would also be capable of roaming the galaxies, when humankind might encounter the need to explore the cosmos further.
With more ideas and creations than all the stars in the heavens – I believe that anything is possible! I do hope that you enjoy this brief tour aboard my dream Space Base of the future! Be well and Happy Building!
The Oval Office | Washington D.C. | LEGO® IDEAS | by Nicholas D McKim | June 2024
The Dark Crystal | GARTHIM | LEGO® IDEAS | by Nicholas D McKim | June 2024
Copyright © 1997-2024 Nicholas D McKim - Nicco Starr
