FAQ

tomoko ikeda's doll art

— FAQ —

frequently asked questions

Q: What are the materials of the dolls?

A: The main materials are a variety of cloths, absorbent cotton, wood wool, leather, silk threads, wire, etc.

Q: Where do you get your ideas for your creative work?

A: My creative theme is to capture a subtle ambience or a particular sentiment that flickers in a segment of people's daily activities. So, wherever I am, in town or on a trip, a variety of human interactions catch my heart.

In some cases, an encounter with a piece of fabric stirs my imagination and I make it into a figure.

Q: Is there anything you are particular about in doll-making?

A: Rather than being particular about anything, I value originality.

Q: It appears that many of your dolls have physical features of Westerners. Is there any reasons?

A: I don't have a particular intention, but if there is a scene I want to recapture, I elaborate on it through a mental conversation with the person posing in that scene as I envision it. The features of the dolls you see are simply the result of this creative process.

Q: How long does it take to complete one doll?

A: It depends on each piece, but on average it takes 30 - 45 days. Sometimes, I go through quite a struggle, but when I could make it exactly as I had in mind, I am extremely joyous and feel rewarded.

Q: How can these dolls stand on their own?

A: Their arms and legs have wires inside. The principle is the same as human beings, and as long as the core is solid, they stand naturally.

Q: How did you learn your doll-making techniques?

A: In order to turn the person I envision into the doll I see in my mind, I have to proceed by trial and error, and I have acquired my own way of doing it.

Case by case, I devise and improvise a new technique. I struggle a lot in some situations to get the exact result I want, but this very inventive process is also an incredibly enjoyable and fulfilling time for me.