Damned Dollies
Dylan Madeley
It’s always fun to see what happens when someone applies a strange aesthetic to an everyday thing. Dolls are one example. Every day, you can find the cutest little things; if you look hard enough, though, you can also find the creations of Dana De Kuyper, the mind behind Damned Dollies. It’s tough to say for sure how far her creations stray from mainstream conceptions of how dolls should be; I mean, meeting a real person with the look and dimensions of Raggedy Ann would be pretty creepy. Nevertheless, Damned Dollies are considerably twisted, and I hoped that by asking a few questions I could peek into the headspace of the one who makes them.
Q: How did you become interested in dollmaking?
A: I started out drawing a lot and the dolls just evolved out of that. It seemed like a natural progression since my drawings looked just like deranged dolls anyway.
Are there any artists or designers who inspired your efforts?
Yes, definitely. I am a huge Edward Gorey fan which is pretty obvious in my work. I am not so into Tim Burton even though people always think I am. Probably because Tim Burton has been very influenced by Edward Gorey as well. I am very inspired and in love with Dame Darcy’s comics and gorgeous little dolls. She amazes me.
Quentin Blake is an illustrator whom I love as well – he did most of the drawings in the Roald Dahl books, like Charlie and the Chocolate factory and the Witches.
How have you found the experience of selling products on-line? Have you encountered any particular difficulties or positive aspects that you didn’t expect?
It’s been pretty great for me really. I just need to update my website more often and probably start an Etsy page. I have little skill when it comes to any computer work so I tend to fall behind.
How have you found the experience of selling through storefronts? Have you encountered any advantages or disadvantages compared to selling products on-line?
Yeah, selling in stores is a bit of a bummer. Stores usually take 50% of your sales. I aspire to have my own store some day. It would sell my dolls, candy and taxidermy.
Have you ever set up at a convention for promotional or sales purposes? If so, how did you find this experience? If not, is there a reason you prefer not to do so?
No, I have never tried this. I am not terribly good with self promotion. I do sell at tons of craft and art fairs however. This type of fair is usually amazing but draining.
How are you liking Toronto? What kinds of advantages have you found in working there?
Toronto is great so far. I’ve only been here for a few weeks but there is so much to do! I can’t fit it all in.
For business I know it’s better than Montreal. People here spend more money on art and craft. In Montreal everyone is poor so they won’t buy anything from you unless it’s under $10. it’s kind of great but terrible at the same time.
Rent is crazy expensive here though. I have to work from home which I’m not used to . I had a giant studio in Montreal with a sink. I miss it and my studio mates.
Is there a particular doll you’ve designed which is your favourite?
I’m partial to the ones with the fanciest dresses.
Dana De Kuyper’s art can be seen and purchased at damneddollies.com |
