Sunday, March 2, 2008

Spring...The Doll

I signed up for a doll swap through Vivian's wonderful blog Viv on a Whim . This was fitting as my decision to enter this swap was truly on a whim! I have never done a swap before. The theme was "Beat the Winter Blues". The doll had to be joyful and springlike. This turned out to be good for me as it forced me to think about making something joyful and happy to represent the change of seasons when my heart really wasn't into it. Just a few days after I signed up for the swap my sister was diagnosed with breast cancer and a couple days after that my dear friend Janice died of the same disease (see post below). My mind was swimming with all sorts of dark, one-breasted art dolls representing the helplessness and uncertainty of this awful disease. But I put the cancer dolls on hold for now and started needle felting this gal. I knew I wanted to do a female figure but what I didn't know was how I wanted to pose her. Originally I planned on a nude figure, perhaps representing Mother Nature, lovingly holding baby Spring (a needle felted baby wrapped up in flowered silk) but it just didn't seem right. So though I went through pains to make sure she was anatomically correct, I had to abandon that idea and cover up her lovely body with a dress. I think that was the correct decision though and I'm happy with how she turned out. I only hope my swap partner likes her. So here, holding the first pussy willow of the year, is Spring. I hope you can see plenty of signs of her wherever you are..

11 comments:

Mary said...

Oh my, she is absolutely lovely. Simply breathtaking, Angie.

It's been such a pleasure watching you create these true works of art. Seeing the first beginnings of a piece and watching it change from day to day as you work on it.

I'm sure your swap partner will be thrilled with her and the promise of joy she represents.

Ana said...

she really is a breath of spring air with her cute dress and her flowers definitly a sign that spring has sprung!

country mouse said...

I looked at your blog last night while on the phone with Mary. I am so envious of your swap partner that I told Mary I will be raiding your mailbox . . .

She's just amazing : )

vivian said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
vivian said...

wow Angie! first I'm sorry about the loss of your friend and I hope your sister is fighting hard and doing well.
secondly, Your doll is amazing! I love her and I'm sure your partner will also. All of the dolls I've seen have been wonderful! thanks for sending the picture. I'm going to try to post them friday-ish!
thank you so much for joining the swap!! If your interested I'll be doing a miniature swap in late march early april..
hugs! vivian

Unknown said...

The doll is breath taking, just gorgeous!! Your attention to detail is wonderful! Thanks for sharing your talents!!

Fran said...

Angie,
Sorry, to hear about your friend. My thoughts and prayers are with your sister. I just went through a breast cancer scare. I got a clean bill of health, no cancer.

Love your needle felted doll. She's has a beautiful face. Love her dress and shoes. Your dolls are FANTASTIC ! Your swap partner will love her. This swap was lots of fun.

Donna said...

What wonderful features your dolls have. Makes me want to try felting. Lovely work I'll be checking in to see more.

Gumbo Lily said...

She's beautiful.....dressed or undressed. Your work amazes me.

Jody

WoolPets said...

Hi Angie,
Thanks for giving me a link to your blog-your stuff is amazing-beautiful. The faces of your dolls are so graceful and kind.

Cid said...

I found your blog through AuthenticTimes...your felting is AMAZING and the whole feel of you blog is *yummy*. I've attempted needle felting and may just have to be happy with coasters, lol.