Models From Childhood

A collection of dolls altered resemble New Age Travellers from the 1980s and 90s, as part of a Contextual Enquiry Project exploring personal memories and the memories of other children growing up in the New Age Traveller community.  Due to the lack of toys which reflected a nomadic lifestyle during this time, many parents told stories or altered toys in small ways so that children could relate experiences to them. Taking this remembered action further by modifying small details, such as repainting eyes with little or no makeup, colouring and cutting hair and sewing clothes in muted colours, each doll becomes unique exhibits generic traits of surrounded adults and culture. Whilst the action of play is still present and desired, the delicate nature of these creations means that they are exhibited on stands as both prototypes and relics.

Models from Childhood (2010), altered Barbie dolls, handmade and altered clothing and accessories.