Clara

Every once in a while I create a doll that just simply speaks to my heart.  Clara is one of those dolls.

I had an armature ready to be sculpted.  When I made it, I thought it would be a zombie or perhaps a skeleton.  I wasn't sure.  I know when I mention that I allow the clay to speak to me, you all probably just roll your eyes, thinking I'm just another wacky artist.  But it's true.  Sometimes you have an idea in your head, but the piece says, "Nope.  Don't want to be that."

So I said, "OK.  How about a witch?  Do you want to be a witch?"

It said, "Fine, I'll be a witch.  But make it a good one!"

So I began to sculpt, and this is who came out:

 

This is Clara, the clairvoyant.  She's been at this crystal gazing for many, many years.  And it's left her a little hunchbacked, and her eyes all wonky.  But she just can't stop.  It's her gift.

 

 

Clara has a delicately sculpted, wrinkled face, with one drooping eye and one that is wide open.  I used soft grey wool roving for her hair, which is twisted in a bun in back.  I added Swarovski crystals to her ears and gave her a clear crystal charm necklace.  I've had these clear shooter marbles for about a year, waiting to become crystal balls. (I bought them on the Junk Jaunt last summer. You can read about that here and here.)

 

 

She has slightly saggy breasts, a little bit of a hunchback and some extra 'cushion' on her behind, all products of her extreme age.  I dressed her all in black: a micro suede skirt with a black glittered velvet ribbon belt, a crepe paper collar, and a long fringed shawl.  Not visible are her black and white striped stockings.  Her boots are buttoned up with Swarovski crystals.

 

 

Here you can see her interesting profile and how she is just slightly stooped over.  I like how the reflections change in the crystal ball in every view.

 

 

One of the things I really enjoy about creating these dolls is that I can shop in every department of Hobby Lobby and find something that just might work.  I found this fringe with the upholstery trims.  It makes a perfect shawl!

 

 

I'm not exactly sure what is it about this particular witch that has struck me so hard, but I love her!  Clara is not listed in my etsy shop yet, and to be honest, she might not ever be!  I'm having a hard time with the idea of parting with her.  We'll see.  The next witch I make might be even better, then it will be easier to pass her along to someone else who will love her like I do! 

 

I would love to hear what you think about her.  Please leave your comments below!

 

I'm back to the studio!

Lisa