Mixed Media Dollhouses

Have you seen this fab new book by Tally Oliveau and Julie Molina?  If you're a lover of mixed media, or doll houses, or miniatures, or assemblage, or...well...just really terrific, inventive ideas and techniques...take a look at this book:  Mixed Media Dollhouses.  The book is loaded with photographs of various artist's work.  There are several different houses with different themes...all in brilliant, living color with lots of close ups and tons of technique.  Tally was kind enough, a couple of years ago (could it be that long ago?!) to ask me to participate in this project.  Let me give you a peek at my contribution...

"Aviary"

This is my room, separated from the rest of the castle in which it belongs.  I decided to create an aviary, after all, every good castle needs one, right?

And every good aviary needs a bird girl.  I love this girl as she was the original inspiration for my birdcage necklaces. 

The story behind Birdgirl is a little sad:  Birdgirl is sort of stuck in a rut...in fact, she's rooted to her very seat.  She's a bit absorbed with herself and her immediate surroundings, poor thing.

Since her self-imposed confinement makes her prone to a tendency to dwell on the negative, she wears on her forehead a permanent reminder to "show kindness."

Small reminders surface from the wallpaper of her room, as well.

Her creations lie within herself, waiting to emerge if she would only allow it.

She's a very emotional gal.

She keeps company with her adoring, captive minions (their mica enclosed cages hang on a piece of Manzanita given to me by my mother, years ago)...

...and watches jealously as others fly freely, outside her window...wishing she could join them but not wanting to give up her spot as queen of the aviary. 

And that's just the story of one room!  There are many, many rooms in "Mixed Media Dollhouses" to explore and enjoy...and endless inspiration.  My room is just one tiny part, but I'm honored to have been included.  Thank you, Tally and Julie!

Comments

[Denise]

I just got this book and amin love with it. I am so glad to find you online because your creation was very fascinating. I love that you have lots of close ups of it. Great job.

[ramona]

most gorgeous!!! makes me curious about the book.

[Deborah]

The book looks right up my alley. I think your bird girl and your mica pieces are so inspiring. I love the thoughtful ideas you come up with for your pieces.

[Deirdre]

That is one of the coolest things I've seen all day... beautiful and odd what a perfect combination!! Love it!

[cynthia Wolff @Beatenheart]

Your bird girl goes exactly with the story that I'm telling right now on my blog...I gasped when I saw it as it was so fitting...She is self absorbed because she is hurting, she is wounded in some way...She is covering up her secrets..well my interpretation anyway! I love your work Deryn. You are so blessed with your great vision and talent..cynthia Wolff

[Ariane]

I just love your birdgirl and the aviary. Too cool!! What a great story.

[pilar]

I love the care and thought you put behind each and everyone of your creations. This is just an example of what a total artist you are. Lovely work!

[Deb]

I love the quotes & sayings - especially all over Miss Bird Girl's face. Makes me think of all the conflicting emotions within each of us. The bird tree - the mica - and the caged body are pure Deryn, and all weave nicely together to tell your story. This is wonderous & so are you!

[Pattie]

congratulations Kiddo!!

What a great job you did, and little birdgirl is ever so lucky to have you to share her sad sad stoy with the rest of the world!!

Pattie ;)
Mazatlan Mx.

[Renate]

The book looks awesome and I love your contribution - such a sad and lovely story you tell!

[Lelainia Lloyd]

Oh my! Alot of thought went into this. Brilliant and what a story it tells. I get it!