Saturday, November 15, 2008

Day of the Dead Challenge Doll

Oh, how I struggled with this doll! Perhaps it was a certain internal discomfort with an unfamiliar concept, or perhaps I just didn't have a clue what I was doing, but almost every detail of her creation caused me headaches.

On the other hand, I now have a better handle on working with paper clay, and the basic techniques of tole painting finally "clicked". And I learned that pattern drafting isn't as complicated as I thought -- her whole costume was designed and drawn from scratch. I know, I know... princess seams are easy, but you have to start somewhere!

I really really like her in her "bald" state, but she doesn't look quite Dutch enough to suit me. What do you think?? (As always, please click on the photo itself to view it full size if you want to see more detail.)

She even has the proper footwear.



I looked ALL OVER the internet trying to find a pattern for her hat. I finally designed it myself by looking at photographs. It is made of silk chiffon -- the delft motifs are still clearly visible through the fabric. Those "wings" are starched within an inch of their lives, but are still a little floppy, so I will probably stitch in some fine wire so they are more posable.

She looks "Dutch" enough to me now, but I still really really liked her bald. Hmmmmm...


The buttons I bought for her bodice are gold colored. Once I held them up to get a preview of how they would look I realized that was a mistake; she needs white buttons. Back to the fabric store for me!

I am wrestling with myself over how much embellishment I want to add. On the one hand, the Dutch are a plain people. On the other hand, her costume is NOT authentic and the Day of the Dead is supposed to be over-the-top. Maybe a little embroidery around her bodice? Something in her hands? Definitely a neck ornament of some kind!

Still thinking...

7 comments:

Courtney Short said...

how wonderfully creepy she is!! She turned out great - and that hat added just the right touch.. some embroidery would be my vote :-) Lovely as always!

Jennifer A. said...

I like her better bald too. And instead of embroidery, maybe she should carry some flowers or a basket of flowers. That would add color without "unDutchifying" her.

Shashi Nayagam said...

What a wonderful job you did of her! Love all her details. As always another winner

Anonymous said...

She looks great bald, why cover all that wonderful painting you did? Love her shoes and outfit, I do think she needs some splash of color, you said over the top, right?

Kai said...

I agree with EVERYONE! She's incredible, Judi! Jennifer suggested flowers - I agree - how about TULIPS! They ARE as Dutch as you get! And maybe she could be holding RED tulips with one BLACK one. (There ARE black tulips!) You'd have a bit of color plus a continuance of the 'dark' theme. Whatever you do, add, or DON'T add, she's an amazing doll!

Sprite said...

How terrific is she and with the perfect amount of creepy! Usually' can't go too wrong with a splashes o' color! No matter what you do or how she gets it,no doubt she'll remain(s?) awesome! hee hee ;) Ps: Thank you!
hugs,
Sprite

Judi W. said...

I love this piece - she is so expressive. You did a fab job! I like Kai's idea about the tulips - just a touch of color!