Mixed-Media Doll Making: Redefining the Doll with Upcycled Materials

Inspired by the “Dada” notion of making art from materials that would not typically be combined or expected to go together, and driven by a similar sense of irony and humor, this exciting book by Linda and Opie O'Brien shares their unique approach to making mixed-media dolls. It is not only a “must have” volume for anyone interested in found object art and the human form, it is a thoughtful and provocative exploration of the power, symbolism, and cultural significance of dolls and representational figures.

The authors share detailed techniques for using surface embellishments, creating faces, heads, and limbs, using molds and molding products, and building and transforming disparate objects into whimsical, inspiring dolls. Starting with a variety of substrates—a wood block, a canvas, a tin can, a book, and a box construction—readers are guided step by step through five types of doll constructions.

Included:

— Complete instructions for making a box construction doll, a wood block substrate doll, a two-sided canvas frame doll, a tin can doll, and a book doll

— Numerous variations on each of the core projects for further experimentation

— An inspiring gallery of mixed-media dolls from leading artists who discuss their methods and share their very personal answers to the question: “What is a doll?”

NOTE: This volume is the paperback edition of the hardcover book originally titled: Who's Your Dada? Redefining the Doll Through Mixed Media.