My First Dolls-Thanksgiving Gratitude

My first art dolls came through to me during my first year in Boulder three years ago today-Thanksgiving. They came from a painting that I had just completed of a cougar with a little girl. I covered the painting in jewels, mirrors, and feathers when it was done. I was so mesmerized by the process that I didn't attend a dinner gathering.

The cougar has wings that are jeweled and embroidered. The little girl has two sides. One joyful and one very sad. The cougar is very protective of her and carries her on amazing journeys of discovery. All of my work has been art dolls ever since these dolls arrived.

The picture behind the doll came much later. It is an intriguing painting that I found at a thrift store. I added collage elements on top and a photo of me as a child. At that time, I loved to add candles to all of my collages. The dove came flying in at the end. All about healing and transformation...

I knew nothing about sewing when these dolls appeared. I just allowed the dolls to show me what they needed. I love the tactile aspect of art doll making. It allows me multiple avenues for listening to what is calling to be expressed. I am always in awe of what comes through. I have made almost 100 dolls since that Thanksgiving Day 3 years ago...