Way back in the last Century, about 1993-94, I was one of the pioneers of "doll fashion designers" along with Joshard and a few others. I was featured in Barbie Bazaar Magazine and did shows and conventions where I was indemand along with other designers. It was so nice meet many "star struck" people/fans. I certainly never thought of myself as a celebrity, LOL!
Then I discovered Gene and her Toys R Us clone. I was one of the first people to do a decent repaint on that "clone doll" and gave many others tips and pointers to use to repaint their own dolls. Quite a few of them are now well-known repaint artists.
I branched out from Gene into Cissy and CED, now Super Dollfie, who is becoming one of my favorites. I'm glad to have many, many loyal and faithful, repeat customers!
Along this wonderful journey I began to not feel well a good deal of the time and was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. It has taken its toll on me, partial blindness in one eye and other disabilities.
I got out of doll fashion designs about 2 years ago so my husband and I could travel in our motor home. But I love dolls (I have my own collection and buy other artist's designs & dolls from time to time), so I've gotten back into designing. I appreciate all the wonderful people in doll-dom.
& several fashion doll magazines and books. I've also written articles for doll fashion magazines and for mental health and other publications. In addition, I've written a book called Descent Into Madness: A Personal Look Into Schizophrenia. It's recommended reading at several universities and elsewhere along with A Beautiful Mind, the book & movie about Schizophrenia.
(con't below feature article)
My Feature Article in Barbie Bazarr Magazine in 1995 when I used to do only Barbie fashions, lots of reproduction designs, rerooting and repainting, etc.
Despite the setbacks both with my health and my son's and being challenged beyond the endurance that most people should have to suffer, I also know I am NOT alone. Others are suffering too from mental illness and other disabilities and illnesses. One thing that has come about from doll collecting and doll fashion design for me is that I have met many wonderful people and close friends. We share our trials and tribulations and laugh and cry together. All things being said, I wouldn't change a thing because I have gotten to where I am now because of or in spite of everything. It wouldn't be the same otherwise! Thanks to all and to my one best friend! You know who you are! Jo
