Why Dolls Fascinate Us So Much

When I was young, my mother took me to visit a local doll museum. I remember being charmed and awed by the variety of different kinds of dolls. Learning the history and story of each one showed me how dolls can be so much more than mere toys. They can be works of art, and reminders of history itself. And each one was created in it's own unique way. Porcelain dolls, compositional dolls, dolls made of cloth and wood--there is no end to the inventive ways those of the past have chosen to bring their greatest creations to life. As an artist myself, I can not help but be in awe of all that goes into the making of a beautiful doll. Sculpture, painting, clothing design and superior sewing on a miniature scale. There are very few other works of art that include so many different medias just to create one single work. I have recently begun studying more about the history of dolls and doll making while preparing to write a book. I have learned that one single doll represents a labor of love for many different people. The artist that originally creates and sculpts the doll's form, the designer of the clothing and wig, the seller who acquires that particular doll to sell it, and the person who falls in love with their creation and invites it into their home to display it for all to see. Is it any wonder, dolls are so fascinating to those who view them.

Tatianna the Fairy Queen

There are lots of fairy dolls on the market, but very few I feel I must buy. This one is by Silke Schloesser (isn't that a gorgeous name?). She is made of a special resin that makes her skin look real, almost translucent. She is also fully posable.

The Newest Edition

This is Tamsin my newest doll. I've looked for a doll with darker skin for a very long time. After stumbling onto this one I had to own her. I sewed the outfit myself since she didn't come with one. If you knew anything about me and my hate of sewing you would realize how amazing this is. Collecting dolls has forced me to learn new skills I never would have taken up otherwise.

One of My More Unusual Dolls

I didn't even know there was such a thing as a centaur doll until I found this one for sale on the internet. Isn't he gorgeous? This was the first time I bought a doll that I had to paint the face and body myself from scratch. I was so nervous he wouldn't turn out because he had white skin instead of flesh colored. The features have to be subtle but not too pale. It was tricky but he came out beautifully in the end. Don't you think?

My Collection

If there is one thing I have learned about doll collectors it’s that everyone has his or her own preferences as to what kind of dolls they like to collect. Some people only collect Barbies or vinyl dolls, others only collect dolls that are babies or toddlers. I tend to favor contemporary dolls that look more mature. I only have two dolls in my collection that are not adults and both of them are young girls not babies. Adult dolls are harder to find and I enjoy the challenge. I also tend to buy fantasy dolls. Sorceresses, fairies, princesses, elves, mermaids, I own them all. I even own a centaur doll! All I need now is a faun doll and my collection will be complete—maybe. I like to have a variety of hair and dress colors so that none of my dolls look too much alike. (Believe it or not, I have dolls with green and pink hair and one with blue skin.) I’ve spent a great deal of time hunting down dolls of different nationalities and skin colors as well. Every time I think my collection is complete, I see a new doll I must have. But then, what is life without a few surprises to look forward to?

Ashton-Drake Dolls

Florence Maranuk Mermaid Doll