INTRODUCTION TO THE BDA

by Carole Piper

In the early days of the BDA one of the difficulties was to separate our original work from reproduction antique dolls. Today there is even further confusion with the reproduction of modern artist-designed dolls. A reproduction artist doll is one made from a mould which has been made available either directly or indirectly from the artists who was responsible for the original sculpture of the doll. An original doll, on the other hand, is one made entirely by the artist - the sculpture, pattern drafting, painting and finish all by the artist concerned.

The role of the original doll artist, as represented by members of the BDA, continues to diversify. While most still produce complete and finished dolls, some now also produce dolls in kit form for others to assemble; some design patterns for publication or write books; some produce sculptures for commercial doll makers or mould makers; and others offer classes and workshops in various aspects of dollmaking. Some make many dolls in a year, others very few. All are still artists of the highest calibre.

by June Rose Gale