Artist Natalie Natarova lives in Moscow, Russia. She has just released Tosya, the second member of the Dolly Hugs Crew. The pre-order for Tosya is open until the 12th of August.
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Q: to start, could you tell me a little about yourself and also how you became a doll artist?
A: My favorite pastime in childhood was playing with dolls and making them clothes, accessories, homes and organizing their life. Barbie, Ken, Sindy, Cosima, and others – were my best friends when I was playing with them. But that time has gone, all those dolls passed away and there were no dolls in my adult life for a long time – because I’m a mother of two boys! But when I saw BJD dolls on the internet for the first time, I couldn’t believe artists could make such realistic dolls by their own hands… It was an amazing experience – a little doll could move like a real human… Her moves were so realistic, her body was so flexible and smooth, her face was so beautiful and lifelike and outfit had such authentic details – I was in love. I decided to have one of these amazing dolls someday… and the more I studied the subject, the more I lost my mind.
One fine day – it was my birthday – I spent all my birthday money for my first doll. I took a lot of photos with my first doll-model – it was an inspiring flight of fancy! But once I understood, that her face needed to become more expressive and vivid, I decided to try to make my first face up for her. Of course, it was very difficult and not a first clear how to draw brows, shadows and other details of the face to make it more interesting and darling. Nevertheless, other doll-collectors began to ask me to repaint their dolls too. More experience = better result. I became a makeup artist and found a lot of friends in the dolly world. I repainted tens or maybe hundreds of different wonderful dolls for some years. They have amazing sculpts, moods, proportions! I wanted so much to try to make my own ball-jointed doll. I need it so much, but I didn’t know how to sculpt at all – what should I do? Quite right! Go and study classical sculpture at an art workshop and regularly view sculpture creations in the museum of fine arts and in art books! I learned to understand shapes, see symmetry, proportions, look at the model from different sides and from different angles, and not be afraid to redo and start from scratch.
Knowledge of anatomy and observation of people, their faces, figures, perspective – needs full attention and always is interesting and useful. I took photos and collected pictures of unusual and beautiful faces from people all over the world – they inspire and make me move forward – to create each new face more realistically and charismatically, every new body more flexible, detailed and accurate.
I have much to develop further and there is much to learn about creating dolls. It’s a fantastic world that makes everyone, who opens their heart to getting dolls hugs. Hugs – are the best way to be happy, I’m sure!
Q: So can you tell me about your very first doll?
A: My first doll Button was created a year ago and several dozen dolls went to new homes all over the world.
Q: Do you have a specific inspiration for your dolls?
A: My main inspirations are my kids and their friends! And I always enjoy watching people – the structure of their bodies, faces, hands. I like to watch ballet and rhythmic gymnastic girls and their wonderful moves!
Q: Do you still take face-up commissions?
A: Before I started to create my own dolls, I took face-up commissions, but now it happens not very often, because of less free time. But I like so much to do them, especially to make alive the beautiful big-size dolls.
Q: Will you continue to make 1/6 size dolls or do you plan to create some in different sizes? Will you introduce boys as well?
A: I think, 1/6 BJD size is very comfortable to own. It possible to take a doll anywhere you go to make beautiful photos with her. I’d like to continue my 1/6 family and create some more faces! And of course boys! My first doll Button has a universal face and looks good as a girl or as a boy! Some collectors ordered boys for girls. Now I’m working on the bigger doll, MSD size 1/4. I wish to create a teenage girl with good mobility and aesthetic mooves to realize some more photo ideas and desires.
I forgot to add about smaller size 1/12. It is a great size too. Of course, I’ll create some pocket dolls – it will be an interesting experience. I’d love to.
Q: Is there something I forgot to ask or that you would like to add?
A: Every Dolly Hugs doll is made of high-quality resin and hand-painted by me. I made their wigs, shoes, and clothes too. If customers want to buy my doll full-set, I will take orders for wigs, outfits, and shoes too. My sister also helps me with outfits. I also want to thank all my customers for their support and warm comments, sharing and love!
The artist may also be found on Den of Angels and The Resin Cafe
