October 27, 6:25 PM
NY Doll Collecting Examiner
Shadows and lights are distinguished through Nancy Wiley’s brush stroke technique and style of painting which she combines with her creation of doll artistry and designs. She sculpts dolls of paperclay with a precision and with intricate detail, which gives life to the dolls she brings forth. And when the dolls are brought to full fruition; an eminent effect seems to take place; an effect of an appearance of which a memory has been captured in time; an effect that she has formed into an innovative path of purpose for her doll making. An effect that can be seen through the pages of the newly released original classic of Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures In Wonderland; A classic of which Nancy created a whole new world of dolls as illustrations to aid a timeless and trilling tale.
In part I of the interview with Nancy Wiley, there was an exploration of her work; the study of the conceptual imagery of a dreamy type quality to her doll artistry; And how she applied her artistic skills and abilities in ways that would take doll sculpting-doll painting to a greater level. In addition to her doll making, Nancy is an accomplished painter, Doll collectors will find her work mesmerizing and will see the many techniques she uses to communicate
her style, gift and expertise. In part II of the interview, Nancy explains the challenges in describing her work to others who are new to her artistry and originality, and how the goal is to bring an understanding of her unique type of doll creativity; Also, the interview zeros in on what she thinks and feels about her doll creations and what is important to her when she shares her work for the world to see.
EA: What do find the most challenging as a doll artist?
NW: The most difficult thing as a doll artist is communicating about this art form. I need to have visuals to help explain, because people have vivid preconceptions of what a doll is to them. So if I just say "I make dolls" that could mean anything from Raggedy Ann to Barbie or anything else people associate with the word "doll". However, I haven't come up with a better term. Sometimes I will say "doll sculptures"--I don't know if that is really any better.
EA: What do you demand of yourself, when you create?
NW: The question I ask myself is "How do I make this work"? I usually have an idea in my head and it is always an adventure to see if I can make it work in three dimensions. But also the hardest question is "Is it finished?"--deciding that is always difficult. I guess when I can no longer add or subtract anything that will improve it, I am done.
EA: What thoughts go through your mind when you start to work on your creations?
NW: For me, the face is the most important aspect of the piece. Even if you have a great concept and flawless execution, if the face is wrong, the whole thing won't work. So, that is the first task--sculpting a face that I like that shows some kind of quality that will be important for the whole piece to work.
EA: Do you have a doll collection, exclusive of your doll creations? If so, what kinds of dolls do you collect.
NW: I have a very eclectic collection. I prize my brother William Wiley's dolls that I still have. Also, I like old, folk art type dolls, more primitive looking made of wood or cloth. And also I collect friend's dolls.
EA: What is the most important thing you would like to say to doll collectors who view your work?
NW: I would like collectors to know that I am dedicated to my work and that I always try to create something surprising about each piece. I also like to think most works have a subtext, that if you keep the piece for a while, the more layers of meaning you will notice.
EA: Nancy thank you so much for spending time with us.
NW: Thank you.
Visit Nancy Wiley's website and discover the world she has created with her extraordinary dolls. Nancy has a wonderful video of her work on the Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures In Wonderland. Share this with friends, family and other doll collectors and enthusiasts.
Photos are courtesy of Nancy Wiley
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