|
In August 2006, walking down Market Street in San Francisco I saw some Altered Barbie’s in the window of an Art Gallery and stopped to look. I had never seen this artwork before. I loved it, loved it, loved it. Although I have always considered myself “An Artist” (even the 25 years I was a Banker and Criminal Investigator) I never liked to Paint or Draw pictures nor did they excite me when I saw that kind of work in a Gallery, Book etc. I have no particular connection with Barbie. I did not have one when I was a kid, never desired one as a matter of fact but the Artwork was different. It made me feel good to look at it and was inspired to create some of my own to keep that good feeling going. I started shopping within days.
I shop at thrift stores, flea markets and garage sales to purchase used Barbie’s (and other similar dolls ) and props to create these pieces. I like the idea of making art out of recycled stuff. I am not affiliated with any of the doll makers or the makers of the props or accessories I put in my pieces. I use these objects as my canvas.
I use high quality acrylic paint and either repaint or partially repaint them and seal them. In a few cases, I leave the face painted as it was originally, especially in my early work. The inventory I assigned to my first piece was #5522. They are one of a kind. Around #5600 I began to sew in eyelashes on most of the pieces.
I applied to attend the National Barbie Convention in Grapevine Texas ( near Dallas) June to July 2007.
I was a little concerned about how the folks in Texas, much less, Die Hard Barbie in a box and Vintage Barbie collectors would react to my work. I rented a space in the Sales Room. My work was extremely well received (I made some good sales) and I was the only “Altered Barbie” artist. There were other artist who created beautiful clothes and redid their hair and make-up. I was more excited about the pieces I was going to enter into the competitions. There were about 20 categories and by my deadline I was ready to enter 10 pieces. Good thing I did not have to submit pictures ahead of time. #1. I would not have had 10 pieces ready and #2. If they had a chance to see pictures would they tell me not to come?
I am sooooooooo happy to report that out of the 10 pieces submitted, 8 of them won ribbons. 3 FIRST place, 2 SECOND place, 2 THIRD place and one HONORABLE MENTION. One piece did not win any ribbons and the other entry was rejected as DISTASTEFUL.
Those pieces winning a ribbon are indicated with the word PRIZE beside it’s inventory number.
July 2008 I participated in the IFDC (International Fashion Doll Convention) and entered some of my work in the competitions. I won 2 - 1st palce ribbons, 2 - 2nd place ribbons and 2 - 3rd place ribbons.
SHIPPING: I ship within Continental U.S and Canada, using USPS, Priority, or Media Mail
(Typically 2-9 days). Shipping cost for this item is $15.00 in the United States.
PAYMENT INSTRUCTIONS:
PAYPAL
RETURNS: Returns are allowed ONLY if the item was not as described as it is and/or the pictures do not show clearly. If you require additional information or clarification of information, please contact me via email before you commit to the purchase.
DAMAGES: All shipments must be insured. In the event of damage, notify me within 3 days of receipt and save ALL packaging materials in the event of a damage inspection. I will contact the carrier to facilitate a claim. |
