Isn't he marvelous??? I first saw him in a post on Daryle Cook's site Woodstown Whimsies last November. Of course I fell in love with him and wondered at Daryle's incredible talent and imagination. Recently Daryle has opened a gallery where he is selling some of his 'whimseys'. The first one that came up was - yes you guessed it - "Memory Keeper"! Hmm, my birthday was in December but passed quietly -- didn't I deserve a gift - after all this was one of those 'big' birthdays?
Its difficult to see in these pictures but the center heart is an open area where I can drop memories inside the main box. Mr. Memory Keeper is now hanging on a wall in our house - where I can look at him each day. He reminds me that memories and their love are always with us, he inspires me because of the talent and creativity that it took to put him together. Best of all -- he makes me smile! "Keep all special thoughts and memories for lifetimes to come. Share these keepsakes with others to inspire hope and build from the past, which can bridge to the future." - Mattie Stepanek
There is a doll artist who I've spoken of before -- but once again I want to share his art, his skill and his generosity with all of you. His name is Daryle Cook. His blog Woodstown Whimsiesis filled with his wondrous creatures.
Lucky, lucky me -- I actually have three of his dolls right here in my studio. This is a group that Daryle formed for a separate blog last year. In the story they were stranded near Nonesuch Creek. Such woebegone little ones. I love it that they came to stay with me where although they still look pretty sad and bedraggled, they are warm and dry and getting lots of conversation.
Recently Daryle has started a new blogCloth and Clay Doll Makerswhere he has put up videos on this techniques. Very comprehensive explanations and instructions. Truly a treasure for doll makers. I'd like to honor Daryle -- perhaps give him the 'unofficial' doll maker crown and thank him for both his creativity and his generosity of character. "Happiness exists on earth, and it is won through prudent exercise of reason, knowledge of the harmony of the universe, and constant practice of generosity." - Jose Marti
"Waiting" -- this young woman is just beginning her life. What awaits her? She is anticipatory thinking that all things bright and beautiful will be coming her way. Will someone come along and unlock the key to her heart? Will each day bring wonder and magic? All is before her.
I so enjoyed working on this figure - which includes painted fabric, snippets of special fabrics, a couple of my 'trinkets' and of course a few embroidery stitches. Pure joy!
This figure was inspired by Daryle Cook's 'stuffies' submission in a 2009 issue of "Cloth Paper Scissors". I am so grateful for this guidance back into figure/doll making.
"The world is full of magical things patiently waiting for our wits to grow sharper." - Bertrand Russell
