Embracing Healing and Self-Discovery: Felt Doll Making at Art4Space

I can’t believe I forgot to post about this except on Instagram! When it really deserves a blog post !

In a transformative course at Art4Space, I had the profound experience of creating felt dolls that delve into the depths of human emotion and personal growth. This journey was beautifully captured through two distinct dolls: "Healing Threads: A Mother’s Journey Through Grief and Faith" and "Golden Quest: Embracing the Self." Each doll embodies a rich narrative, woven with symbolism and personal significance.

Healing Threads: A Mother’s Journey Through Grief and Faith.

This doll is a poignant manifestation of sorrow, born from the profound grief of losing a son at 21 weeks and 5 days of pregnancy. The artwork encapsulates the complex layers of a mother's journey through loss and faith.

The doll clutches a teddy bear, a tender reminder of the box gifted to parents losing a baby in the hospital, infusing deeper meaning into the narrative. It is dressed in a colorful yet subdued dress, symbolizing fleeting moments of solace amidst profound pain, and is draped in somber black to honor the depth of grief experienced.

The umbilical cord, represented by bead letters stating "5 months in my womb forever in my heart," links the doll to a cradled baby figurine, symbolizing the enduring bond between mother and child, transcending physical separation. In this narrative of mourning, elements of trust in God are interwoven, evident through Quranic inscriptions invoking comfort and reminders of Allah’s boundless mercy and love.

"Indeed, with hardship [will be] ease" (Quran 94:6) suggests that difficulties are always followed by relief or ease, emphasizing life's cyclical nature and offering hope for better times ahead. Stars, as beacons of hope and guidance, and the crescent moon, symbolizing the perpetual presence of God and the promise of reunion in the hereafter, further enrich the symbolism. Water droplets, emblematic of purification and renewal, echo the healing grace inherent in Allah's mercy. Through this artwork, a delicate balance is navigated between the depths of grief and the solace found within the nurturing embrace of faith.

Golden Quest: Embracing the Self

The second doll represents a journey of self-discovery and personal empowerment, embodying the archetypes of the Queen, the Huntress, and the Mystic.

Dressed in a golden gown, the doll symbolizes inherent worth and potential for greatness. The purple cape represents creativity, wisdom, and spiritual connection. A large golden flower shield signifies her commitment to safeguarding inner peace, self-love, and personal time amid life's challenges, reminding her to establish boundaries and prioritize well-being.

The crescent moon scepter symbolizes decision-making power and strength of character, featuring Arabic words for Courage (shuja'a), Strength (quwa), and Authenticity (asalah). Its sturdy presence reflects her determination to make choices aligned with her true self. A necklace bearing the message "Be you" serves as a constant reminder to embrace authenticity and remain true to her unique identity. The crown, adorned with a heart, symbolizes her dedication to being guided by love in all endeavors.

Incorporating Palestinian tatreez patterns into the design further symbolizes qualities of strength, courage, and authenticity, drawing inspiration from the rich cultural heritage and resilience of Palestinian women. These elements collectively represent my journey of self-discovery, goal-setting, and inner fulfillment as I nurture different aspects of myself and works toward genuine contentment.

Exhibition at the Museum of the Mind

These dolls are currently exhibited at the Bethlem Museum of the Mind until the end of August. The Victorian cabinet in the grand boardroom serves as an ideal display for our work. Accessible to all, this exhibition invites curious visitors to engage with our creations. Colin, who assisted with the placement, praised our talents and believes our dolls will spark meaningful conversations among visitors.

This exhibition marks a proud moment, showcasing our artistic talents and creative journey. It celebrates the intricate craftsmanship and profound expression embodied in each doll, inviting visitors to explore themes of grief, faith, self-discovery, and empowerment.

The Bethlem Museum of the Mind, focused on the history of Bethlem Royal Hospital and its patients, offers a fitting backdrop for our dolls, emphasizing the therapeutic and transformative power of art. Through this exhibition, we aim to inspire and touch the hearts of all who encounter our work.

Video from Bethlehem Museum of the mind Instagram’s

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—-Acknowledgement—

Art4Space continues to foster a nurturing environment where creativity and personal stories come to life. This course has not only honed our artistic skills but also allowed us to express deeply personal narratives through the art of felt doll making.

Special thanks and lots of love to Jewels (Julie), Natti & Fran. For their encouragements, their supports through hard times and love showing they care for the community.

You are precious to me and my story. ❤️🌹