Finished Dolls

I have just returned from two-weeks "on the road" teaching and at the NIADA convention. The landscape was so beautiful in Tennessee and Kentucky...the people so friendly...very inspirational!

I have much "fodder" for my blog- the new NIADA book, my classes, Many dolls from the show and sale, The key note speaker- Elsa Mora, and many photos of wonderful scenery- I will be able to share with you over the next few weeks...

Old barn on the side of the road..Kentucky

Like any "good" artist, I was working until the last most possible minute to complete my dolls for the NIADA Show and Sale. So I was not able to get any photos of the dolls individually.

It is a gift of love that I stitch into each one of my dolls...maybe even the need for being the best I can be at this moment in time. As promised here is a photo of me with my dolls at the convention.

Later, I will share my professional photos with you. But for now...I am a lucky girl!

Goldfish,Lotus,and Tiger

Until next week and "The Book"...

Traveling to Kentucky

This week I am teaching in Kentucky...

I am fortunate to stay with a friend
who has a beautiful piece of land in Kentucky.
Here is a view from her place....pretty nice- eh?!

I will return next week and be in full-blog mode
with many adventures to share with you!

Arrowmont

Hello Fellow-Lovers of Wonderful Things-

This week I am away traveling to Arrowmont Craft School
for the NIADA Convention and Dollmaking School...

Will tell you all about it when I return!!
Also- Yes, I did finish the dolls and will post them also!

Little Chinese Hats

Many of you know my love of Chinese Children's Hats...

...so I set out on this adventure to create my Story Dolls- each crowned with a special hat. To make these hats I first choose my theme for each- Lotus, Goldfish, and the traditional Tiger...I first researched the meaning of symbolism of each and then translated it into Chinese (of course with help!)

The Lotus flower stands for purity and beauty.

The Lotus flower starts as a small flower down at the bottom of a pond in the mud and muck. It slowly grows up towards the waters surface continually moving towards the light. Once it come to the surface of the water the lotus flower begins to blossom and turn into a beautiful flower.

The Fish symbolizes a word for plenty, surplus, and enough to spare. It is an essential food. The Fish is a homonym for jade. It is also a symbol for happiness, good luck, and abundance. Also the fish is able to beat all odds because it is able to swim against the current.


The Tiger is king and has majestic dignity. He will ward off demons. The strength of the tiger combined with feline stealth makes this animal a fearsome enemy but a tremendous ally. He symbolizes courage and fierceness.
Next week images of the entire dolls!