This is Peony, my first attempt at a fashion doll makeover, which is what I mean by I sort of made her. I didn't actually manufacture her, Mattel did. I just improved on her, I hope. She's a fairy bride. I think I did OK for my first attempt at a repaint. My techniques have improved since I did her, and my photography certainly has (better camera and some tips from people who actually know how to use one).
She came to me as a used doll and someone had butchered her blonde hair, so I dyed it punk pink. I love her costume, but the pictures really don't do it justice. Her wings are gorgeous pastel feathers. Unfortunately the camera tended to focus on her veil and bouquet, which are nice enough, but it's her wings that are the real standout.
So there you have it, my first doll. I've improved a lot, but I still think I have a LONG way to go to compete with the artists that I admire. I try not to copy them but to do my own thing and rather be inspired by them to improve what I do. I think every artist, at least the good ones, add their own touch that makes them unique and special.
The artist that I admire most in this genre of doll art is Renee O'Coughlin of One and Only Dolls. Her work is absolutely amazing. She hasn't done much recently. Sadly, it seems that she was affected by Hurricane Katrina. I hope she gets back on her feet. She has a young teen daughter who was just starting to follow in her footsteps when it happened. I can only dream of being as good as Renee, or even her daughter. That's what dreams are for, I suppose.
