About Nola's Dolls
Each doll that Nola creates is one-of-a-kind. Starting with a simple line drawing of a body shape, Nola traces the composition onto freezer paper to then iron onto muslin. She then sews, turns and stuffs the fabric. Using several layers of paint, Nola creates the color and texture of the doll before pulling different vintage fabrics from her collection to create the clothing. Nola finishes off each piece using buttons, twine and more paint. During the entirety of the process, Nola loves watching the individual personalities emerge in her hands.
About the Artist
Nola Hart makes one-of-a-kind Artist Dolls.
Originally from Toronto, Nola studied art, later opened a teddy bear store and designed a line of bears for the Ty company. After that, Nola began making cloth dolls through workshops and patterns. In 2001, Nola began designing her own dolls after setting out to make an original primitive doll. The evolution of her first three pieces was the pathway to her own “Primitive/Contemporary” style. Since that time, Nola has created over one hundred original dolls.
Nola gets excited when she discovers old cloth or clothing. The colors and worn textures inspire her to create a new personality to wear the vintage pieces. The mismatched button eyes express a beauty of sorts that connects to her heart. These dolls are created very simply and come from a love of the body shapes Nola sees around her everyday. With each new doll, Nola’s style evolves.
Nola looks forward to meeting the personalities that have yet to come.
