Folk Art included doll-making. Rag Dolls are one of the oldest children’s toys in existence dating back to 1630s in the USA. Archaeological evidence prove that dolls were in Ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome.The dolls were often used to teach young children nurturing skills, as playthings and as comfort objects. Doll manufacturers as well as crafters still make rag dolls.
Dolls were made from clay, stone, wood, bone, ivory, leather, corn husks, paper, porcelain, plastic or wax. Today most are made from various fabrics, porcelain and plastic.
Some types of dolls: African, Japanese, Native American and European.
Here is info regarding my rag dolls known as Diversity’s Kidz:
- The memory of a rag doll made for me by my (Mama – my paternal grandmother who adopted me at one-month old). This memory motivated me to create rag dolls. They are made from the heart with much love and care. These dolls are designed to display a beauty that excels any other. Not guided by what the world dictates or sees as beauty but what is seen by one’s own concept of self. This collection is not to be judged by what society would consider as “flaws or lack of glamour or the norm.” I’ve planned these dolls to bring hope and acceptance as they are; to show Love and to bring about building Self-esteem.
- My dolls represent different cultures, races and differences. They are examples of what an amazing world it would be if we saw each other as humans to be loved/befriended and just one huge mosaic! I’ve given dolls to children who were having surgery and a specific doll representing a cancer survivor to an adult female who was undergoing cancer treatment. I was told that she takes it everywhere she goes.
- The materials I use are felt, cotton, faux leather, ethnic designs, fleece, polyester, yarn, artificial hair, plastic as well as sewn in eyes and hypoallergenic stuffing. I hand stitch mostly.
If Diversity's Kidz (my dolls) could speak, they would say:
I can be yours.
Take me home and love me.
Treat me with kindness and affection.
Accept me - don't criticize me!
Don't define me by my face, my hair, my complexion,
my shape or my clothes
but by the whole being that I am.
Cherish me!
Hold me close.
Let's snuggle.
Show me off.
I am yours and you are mine!
Let's exhibit to the world what true beauty is!
Virginia Bryan
I've given names to the dolls: ADINAH AMAHLE ASHLEY AZUREE CAIT JAMISON JAZMINE JESSICA JANET LEAH LILIANA MATTEO NALLINI PONDELLA PRECIOUS ROCCO & ASSIR TAHALLA