Cloth doll artist appreciative of gallery

About three years ago, artist Trish Moyer was talking to an artist friend of hers who was working on a “cloth doll.” Moyer had never heard of the dolls before, but she decided to give it a chance. At that point in time she was exhibiting watercolors, but was looking for something new. After trying to make just one doll, Moyer enjoyed it so much that she’s been making them ever since.

The process of making a doll can differ depending on the artist and what type of doll one is creating. Moyer likes to do soft sculpture dolls with some paper clay added for things like shoes, faces and accessories. She said paper clay is very easy to work with, doesn’t require any heat to dry and can be painted on. The secret is that it’s made out of volcanic ash.

For Moyer, the process begins with cutting out a cloth pattern, then sewing it together, stuffing it, and then embellishing it.

“I always like to include something that is an antique like a hankie or a piece of jewelry,” said Moyer.

A doll can take anywhere from a week to a month to finish.

“The alliance has been such a benefit to me. From being able to exhibit, to making many friends, and especially allowing me to express my art in just any way I choose. You don’t find that at many galleries,” said Moyer, of the Hamburg Gallery.

She tries to participate as much as possible and every year Moyer donates to the silent auction and to the fundraisers. This past May, she was the featured artist of the month.

“I try to do anything to help the gallery. I only exhibit at this gallery now and really it’s the best one I’ve been associated with,” said Moyer.