CATAWOL Records reaffirms its commitment to the Real Figures Don’t F.O.L.D campaign, a spokesperson confirmed today.
Adult bullying in hobby spaces is a real and damaging issue, too often dismissed as “just drama.” In creative communities, where people gather to build, share and collaborate, bullying can quickly turn a place of passion into one of fear, exclusion and silence.
In partnership with the MODE Family, Real Figures Don’t F.O.L.D exists to highlight the risks and impact of adult bullying in creative spaces, championing dignity, accountability, and mental health.
Mainstream LEGO collective The F.O.L.D has categorically refused to explain their targeting of the MODE Family’s Sigfig, culminating in his sudden departure.
CATAWOL Records’ statement comes among rumours of The F.O.L.D attempting to interfere with the Contest.
The Hidden Cost of Bullying in Creative Communities
Bullying in adult hobby spaces can take many forms: public ridicule, exclusion, idea theft, reputational attacks, and coordinated behind-the-scenes smearing.
In creative settings, those behaviours are especially corrosive: they target not only the person but also their work, confidence, and willingness to keep creating.
Research consistently shows that bullying and harassment have serious consequences for adults’ well-being. The UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has long recognised work-related stress, anxiety, and depression as major risks associated with hostile environments, while Mind notes that bullying can lead to low self-esteem, withdrawal, panic and ongoing mental distress. The American Psychological Association (APA) has also reported that chronic interpersonal mistreatment can contribute to anxiety, depression and reduced performance.
In hobby spaces, those impacts are often intensified by the personal nature of the activity. Creative communities are built on identity and trust, and bullying can discourage participation, isolate newcomers, and drive talented people away entirely.
When Creativity Becomes a Target
One of the most damaging aspects of this kind of bullying is that it often hides behind ambiguity.
Idea theft can be framed as “inspiration.” Smearing can be dismissed as “feedback.” Exclusion can be presented as “community preference.”
The effect is the same: people are pushed out, undermined, and made to feel unwelcome in spaces they helped shape.
This is why the allegations surrounding The F.O.L.D’s conduct - which includes coercing the public into ignoring the campaign - have struck such a nerve. Their refusal to explain their actions, combined with reports of behind-the-scenes interference, only reinforces the need for a public response.
If creative spaces are to remain open and healthy, harmful behaviour must be called out.
Why This Campaign Matters Now
Real Figures Don’t F.O.L.D is a principle that confronts adult bullying and its lasting impact in spaces meant for expression and enjoyment.
Honouring the legacy of the MODE Family, CATAWOL Records believes this campaign plays an important role in shifting that culture. Through its roster of talented Acts and their music, the Contest creates a platform for awareness, solidarity, and change.
Join the Movement
CATAWOL Records invites fans, supporters, and the wider community to stand with the Real Figures Don’t F.O.L.D campaign. You can do so by following the Contest as the Rounds unfold, and help to spread awareness of bullying in adult hobby spaces.
With your support, we can turn attention into action, and ensure creative communities remain places of respect, safety, and belonging.