What exactly is an ‘avatar’ in the context of doll-making?
There are a few ways in which we use the term these days, but it always involves the physical or virtual representation of a person, idea or deity (as in Hinduism). An ‘avatar’ can be a simple ‘cartoon’ character to use as a social media profile pic, or the physical manifestation of a goddess/god - with plenty of options in-between.
A doll can be used as the physical representation of a personal quality or archetype. I have my own ‘wise woman’ doll - the second doll I ever made (the first sits in a permanent lotus pose due to very bendy and unstable legs!) She looks quite fierce, but that’s probably more to do with mouths being rather tricky to felt when you’re starting out than her true nature… or is it…?
If you had an Avatar Art Doll, what would you do with it?
Maybe, like any relationship, you just take it day by day and see how things develop. It’s like an extension of the teddy bear or favourite doll we might have had as children. It becomes part of our world - and starts to inhabit a unique corner of it.
My own avatar serves to remind me of the grace, strength and wisdom of the ‘crone years’. She has a stillness about her - a deep wisdom, borne out of living a full life. My avatar isn’t ‘me’, but she represents a few qualities I’d like to acquire.
A recent commission for an artist in Ireland resulted in a felted sculpture (as she decided to call her) that became an avatar for her. Her testimonial is below - you can see how she relates to her avatar/person/companion.
Feedback - custom made felted person
"I use my felt sculpture as a focus point, a pathfinder for what I am trying to manifest in my life. I create an altar, or scene to depict what I am trying to bring into my life. It could be for an art exhibition or a trip to Italy or to receive an insight. When she is not busy manifesting for me, she is a reminder of who I would like to be. A serene, strong, wise woman in her vibrant colours travelling through life ready for her next adventure. Just looking at her makes me smile. Thank you, Barbara, for bringing her into being for me."
Claudia Roche, Artist. Ireland.
You can see more of Claudia's art and follow on Instagram @claudia_roche_ and @claudia_roche_too