Of all the art dolls I've made in recent years, Birdie is one of my favourites. There's something about her wistful expression that reminds me of myself as a child. Birdie has been dressed up in her best clothes for a formal occasion, with a large bow in her hair. Perhaps she's off to Sunday school? Everyone will say how sweet she looks, but Birdie is uncomfortable in her own skin. She is lost in her own magical world and would rather be chasing fairies in the woods.
I chose mostly monochromatic materials for this little one, with a few flashes of faded purple, reminiscent of a vintage, black and white photograph that's had colour added later. The hair is made from flax fibre, which is an interesting fibre to work with. Flax is much coarser than acrylic or bamboo, but still works well for needle felting. It has a natural uneven texture, that gives it a realistic texture when used for doll hair.