Doll-Making Workshops
Images courtesy of Mingei International Museum.
Stringing Ourselves Back Together: Storytelling and Paper Mache Doll Making Workshop
The paper-mache doll is a distinctive traditional craft that became the dear play object and companion for many children in Central Mexico. Today, this tradition is struggling to survive, being kept alive only in the workshops of the few artisans who continue to produce paper-mache dolls, not for monetary gain but for the continuity of this beautiful art. In this single day workshop, you will sew and create your own doll using molded forms, string, embellishments and paint. You will also learn about the history of the paper mache doll as a traditional and indigenous form of art from Mexico as well as its use with practices of art therapy.
Workshop Breakdown & Agenda
This workshop has a duration of 1.5-3 hours but can be adapted according to your event’s needs. The workshop starts with a presentation about of history of the Lupita doll as a beloved folk toy from Mexico, followed by a demonstration with molds and other historical artifacts. The second part of the workshop is the hands-on where participants get to write a story for their dolls and paint their own paper mache doll.
The Paper-Mache Doll Making workshop can ideally fit 30 participants. This number can change to fit your space & event’s needs but consider that 30 is an ideal number for allowing 1:1 assistance during the doll-making process and for sharing amongst the group.
Dolls are for everyone and all ages are welcome! Children below 4 yrs will need to be supervised by parents.
If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your business or institution, please email nledesma916@gmail.com