|
|
 |
These days, there are more doll artists than one could possibly count, with styles ranging from fantasy to gothic. It is a challenge for an artist to find a way to truly stand out. It is equally as challenging to develop a signature style without becoming monothematic. But Dorothy Fannin has overcome both of those obstacles, and has carved out a niche for herself in the doll world, while maintaining a variety of interests and styles. And in addition to her wonderful creativity, she is a really nice person too! |
| Dorothy became interested in dolls when her granddaughter was born
in 1980. But like many other artists, she grew tired of the same blonde
haired smiling dolls in poofy dresses: "After reading Jim Faraone's book
one and seeing Kayandem's molded hair dolls, I knew I wanted to try doing
them. I've developed several different molded hair styles since then."
Her first doll was actually a swap for a friend's boyfriend at the time. It was called "Bachelor Party," a sassy doll wearing a teddy, which came in a customized cake with funny beer cans and hands of Poker on the lid. Even then, she had a knack for miniature accessories! |
 |
 |
One of Dorothy's hallmarks is her line of molded hair dolls. While many artists mold fantasy style hair, Dorothy stays more true to the concept of the Fashion Queen Barbie®. The dolls are sleek and realistic, and are ready to sport any number of accessories, like HATS of course! "I wore a lot of hats back in the 40's and 50's and remember some of the styles I wore then. I didn't see very many hats for Barbie on the market and thought I'd like to try making some." |
 |
 |
 |
|
 |
Dorothy's hats range from Jackie-O inspired pillbox hats, to Summery straw hats with fanciful flowers, to the great feathered and flowered hats of the mid-60s. She has a gift for color combination, and especially for scale. She finds her miniature supplies at "miniature shows, resale shops, Michael's, Jo Ann's, Ben Franklin's, and Mini Magic, Inc. in Columbus, Ohio. You can order a package of assorted colored mini straw from them." |
| Dorothy's website Chic by Dorothy
is a feast for the eyes. It is set up like a vintage hat boutique, with
mannequins. Your can let your mouse stroll through two rooms of fabulous
millinery design. Dorothy offers this advice about showing dolls: "The
best way to present your creations is to take the very best photos that
you can. I'm a published photographer, but no longer take photos due to
my cataract surgeries and glaucoma. My son takes all of my photos now."
Although Dorothy has been having some troubles with her eyes, she continues to make beautiful dolls. She enjoys swaps, and tries to tailor her work to the tastes of her swap partners. This has resulted in an amazing array of styles, from Dennis Rodman in drag to the most particular Jackie Kennedy suits. When asked what she enjoys most about doll customizing she says, "The willingness of most doll artists to share with others just getting started, and the many friendships that I've made in the doll community." |
 |
|
|
To see her dolls, click here. |
|
Barbie® is a registered trademark of Mattel®, Inc. Gene® is a registered trademark of Mel Odom and Ashton Drake. Candi® is a registered trademark of Hamilton Designs. Tyler Wentworth® is a registered trademark of the Robert Tonner Doll Company. Any other dolls mentioned are registered trademarks of their respective owners. This website and those who maintain it are in no way affiliated with the any above mentioned parties. The images of the dolls displayed are photos taken by the author(s) of the article and/or the designer featured. Please do not remove pictures and/or text from this website without permission of the webmaster and/or the photographer.
