2022 Conference Theme: “Origins”
Origins: All human societies have creation myths, or origin stories….stories about the power of DNA, and the diversity of evolved organisms. Our stories may be different but serve a similar point and have brought us to similar creative paths as makers of handmade art dolls. Whether various cultures view their first ancestors as human, males, females, animals, or other mythical beings we are curious about how we became the person we are, where our pedigree began, and how our origins are linked to DNA.
And what about the origins of the objects we make? What part did ancient dolls play in the development of arts and culture in the long history of humans making objects for rituals, protection, magic, and play?
CHALLENGE DOLL 2022 – ‘Imagine’
“hold your breath, make a wish, count to three”
We have all had plenty of time to let our imaginations soar these past two years. Did you imagine the good old days when life was simpler? Or a trip to the future where you could create a world to your liking? Or did you see yourself as a character in a book and living their experiences instead of your own? Maybe you imagined making a doll without any interruption! Or waking up 10 years younger? Or maybe you just imagined a world where we all just got along.
By participating in the 2022 Doll Challenge you will have an opportunity to share how you interpret and represent this year’s theme, ‘Imagine’ and a great way to be involved in our first in-person Conference since 2019.
About the Challenge Doll
A challenge doll is an artistic exploration of how each individual interprets and represents the theme. This theme may be well-defined or merely a phrase. Each participant renders their work, in this case, honoring the doll-making tradition, and submits it for exhibition at the Conference. Submitted dolls should be all original designs and completely fabricated by the artist using any material.
Dolls must be no larger than 24″ in diameter and must not exceed 30″ in height.
The “Imagine” Challenge dolls will be on display during the Conference. We look forward to seeing your interpretation in August!
