Fearless - A Spirit Doll for Encouraging Bravery while Redesigning one's Life

Fear.

We all have it, that thing that holds us back from living the life we're meant to live. It feeds our Inner Critic all the things it can to make sure we don't try new things. If you let it, it will hold your Soul in a perpetual state of anxiety afraid of your own capabilities, other people, and even the world. 

It also can present itself in small almost unseen ways, quietly slipping in, and holding us just enough that it doesn't stop us from living life - but it will interfere by lowering our expectations of ourselves. It will whisper in our ears to only put ourselves out there...just a little bit...as if flying under the radar...trying to convince us that living "safe" is the answer. Of course, there is a difference in living safe and not fully putting your heart into something. If you only give fifty percent, you'll never receive the fullest potential. 

And then there comes the day, that miraculous and long awaited day, when your gentle Spirit screams inside....

"Let me OUT ! I want to Live ! I want to dance in the rain and sing on the mountain tops. I want to take my brush and paint everything I see, purple and red and orange and yellow. I want to DO the things that other people write about. I want to love without fear and laugh without limits.  I want to trust my own voice and see where it leads me. I want to live, FULLY live, this one Life that I have. 

And when the spirit has finished her plea, the glass wall of fear shatters into a bunch of meaningless, powerless shards that crumble into nothingness. And what is left....is a beautiful blank white canvas...waiting for You to start painting your new reality. 

This is a moment to celebrate,to honor like a new birth. And it is this moment that inspired my creation of the "Fearless" Spirit Doll, an honoring and a reminder of how you got here, why you're here, and to cheer lead Each Step Forward. 

The "Fearless" Spirit Art Doll is available in my Etsy shop here

Fearless Spiritual Warrior Art Doll on Etsy

The Pumpkin Queen - Royalty from the Pumpkin Patch

Be careful while out walking through the pumpkin patches, my friends, for Fall is here and the Pumpkin Queen is hurrying about in a very busy state. She must make sure that everything goes as planned, so so busy with all these holidays. It's not just Halloween that keeps her on the go, but Fall itself, Thanksgiving, and even Christmas. She is in charge of an entire Season and that's a lot of pressure on anyone. 

Thank goodness that the gnomes and faeries are here to help her, but still....she works from sun up and late into the night. Every leaf has to be just the right fabulous color and every pumpkin has to be plump and ripe. 

She is a kind queen, but at the same time - there will be no slacking off ! The humans rely on her to bring them this highly loved time of year. They have expectations and she will not let them down. 

When she walks down the rows of the pumpkin patches, inspecting each one, the squirrels and the birds all stand to attention for her. Two cardinals hold onto the train of her dress, filled with fall leaves that have latched on along the way. 

She won't have a rest until before Christmas, when olde Kris Kringle will take over duty. 

So be very mindful when out on those chilly afternoon walks, you just never know where she might be. You will know when she is nearby if you see Mother and Father Cardinal. If you see the cardinal couple, it usually means that the Pumpkin Queen is hiding out of sight, nearby. 

The Pumpkin Queen Folk Art Doll is listed in my Etsy Shop. She was created for adult collectors and not for children. She is designed as a Wall Hanger for easy display. 

The Pumpkin Queen Folk Art Doll by Jeanne Fry

The Spirit of Mardi Gras contained in an Art Doll

I have long been enchanted by the Art of the Venetian Carnival, Mardi Gras, Mask Making, the Colors, the Clothing, and the Culture. This love inspired a new Art Doll...aptly named "The Spirit of Mardi Gras". I wanted the art doll to portray that feel in a sophisticated yet subtle way. 

The Spirit of Mardi Gras - a Cloth and Clay Art Doll by Jeanne Fry

Close View of The Spirit of Mardi Gras Art Doll

The Spirit of Mardi Gras - Wisdom Keeper Art Doll by Jeanne Fry

She is listed in my Indiemade Shop here

The Spirit of Mardi Gras Art Doll

Maia of the Seven Sisters a Celestial Wisdom Keeper Art Doll

Maia came to me in a dream, not just once... but many times. She had lots of stories to tell me, stories of her world and stories of her life. 

Maia is the eldest of the Seven Sisters, or the Pleiades. The Pleiades are an open cluster in the constellation of Taurus, comprised of approximately 500 stars and measures 12 light years in diameter. The Nine brightest starts of the Pleiades are named after the Seven Sisters and their parents, Atlas and Pleione. 

Maia spoke softly, like I would imagine how an angel would speak, and told me about her parents.. Her father's name was Atlas, a Titan, who's job was to hold up the Sky. Her mother was an Oceanid lovingly called Pleione. She was the Protectress of Sailing. One day Pleione and her daughters had a chance meeting with the well known hunter, Orion. Orion became obsessed, and soon the Seven Sisters and Pleione became the object of his pursuit. 

Day in and Day out, Orion pursued them all over the Earth. He pursued them until Zeus intervened. Zeus transformed the sisters and Pleione into doves and placed them in the heavens and it is here that they remain. 

Maia, being the oldest of the sisters, is the most nurturing. She loves to be a guide, shining as brightly as possible for all to see. She encourages travelers to have courage on their journey and to trust their instincts.  She whispers "Follow your own Star" softly, asking you to trust your star...the one that resides inside your heart. 

The next time you are looking up at the stars, see if you can find Maia. You will know when you see her, her star shine will let you know. 

I created Maia, as one of my Wisdom Keeper Art Dolls. She is a cloth and clay Folk Art Doll, bringing the stories from the sky to life. 

Maia is listed in my Etsy shop here
Maia Seven Sisters Art Doll on Etsy

Considering my Art Dolls as members of my Wisdom Keeper Family

Over the years I've been asked many times if I keep any of my Wisdom Keeper Art Doll creations, and if it is hard putting them up for sale because of a sense of attachment. 

To the first part of the question...I keep very few of my creations. I could probably count on one hand the number of Wisdom Keepers I have kept in my realm. The ones that I have kept marked a significance for me, symbolic of growth as an artist or growth as a woman. Do I have favorites? Yes, but they change over time like my own sense of being. 

One Wisdom Keeper that I have kept holds a special place in my heart, although I have to say I don't even quite remember the name I titled her with. To me she represented Magic, the magic and beauty  of being a woman, being able to manifest, and a sense of whimsy. While many of my art dolls could reflect that same thing, this one was different....she had Toes ! 10 glorious toes !As an amputee, this was special to me because as I created each toe and painted the nails, it was as if I was doing so for myself. 

Clay Sculpted Art Doll by Jeanne Fry

While I love each of the art dolls for their own special attributes and what their symbolism means to me, I don't feel a great sense of attachment for I feel that their being is meant for someone else to begin with. 

Another Wisdom Keeper that was special to me was my first commissioned piece. I have to say that creating a commissioned art doll is far more gratifying and special, because during that creative process I feel that I am connecting energetically with the recipient, and the Wisdom Keeper itself holds something far more amazing. 

Crow Goddess - Wisdom Keeper Art Doll by Jeanne Fry

I was in love with the Crow Goddess, as she just embodied a sense of peace, wisdom, and mystique. 

When I began creating the Art Dolls with Gourd and Clay, my creativity went wild. I love working with those mediums and found that the ways I could "play" were endless. My senses evolved, feeling like the Cloth and Clay art dolls were symbolic of inward processes and soul work, and the Gourd and Clay art dolls were more reflective of our outward projections of being a woman. In a sense they reflected the symbolism of the new moon and the full moon; the contrasts of the vibrant dancing singing woman of the full moon vs. the quiet reflective poetic woman of the new moon. 

The Storyteller Gourd Wisdom Keeper Art Doll by Jeanne Fry

The "Storyteller" was one of the first Gourd creations, her meaning so special to me, of the importance of passing on the stories and history. 

Ecstasy in Motion - Gourd Art Doll by Jeanne Fry

I then began to explore working with the fluidity of motion within the art dolls. This truly changed something in me as an artist, bringing a sense of deeper connection. 

But no matter the medium or style of creative process, each Wisdom Keeper carries a sense of reverence of being a woman and it is that feeling that I ultimately wish to share with others. 

Someone asked, if one of the Wisdom Keepers were "you', which one would it be?

As an artist I am sure that there is a piece of me within every art doll, but I suppose the one that most reflects how I feel inside......

Peace and Love,

Jeanne

Grace on a Sacred Morning - A Folk Art Doll that Holds the Serenity

I have always been very particular about how I begin my mornings, knowing that for me it sets the tone for my day. I need them to be filled with ease. I am definitely not one of those people who are filled with energy, shower, exercise, and quickly begin on projects or run out the door into the world. I start me day slowly, almost pampering my every movement. I hate harsh overhead lights and avoid their offensiveness at all costs. I open my blinds at a slant and let the natural light spill its glow while I fix some tea and wind a wrap around my shoulders. I use this time to Listen, to sit on the porch and hear the breeze and the birds, to cuddle with fur-babies, and let my intuition guide me to where I will focus my energy. My mornings are slow, thoughtful, and sacred. 

While I can't always begin all of my mornings like this, I sure try to have the majority of them in this way. It's complete kindness to my body and soul.

I created "Grace" to be the expression of what a Sacred Morning feels like.

She is listed in my Etsy shop here

 Sacred Morning Folk Art Doll on Etsy

The Story of Khloe the Seahorse Keeper - a Beaded Mermaid Folk Art Doll

When Khloe was born she was appointed a very special job by the Mermaid Council. She was chosen to be a Seahorse Keeper, which is a very esteemed and sacred duty. The seahorses are regarded highly by the Mer People, as magical beings of peace and love. Because of their small and delicate nature, a group of Mermaids are assigned to watch over them, as Keepers, a nanny of sorts. The Seahorse Keepers form a loving bond, watching over the seahorses throughout their life, protecting and keeping them out of harm's way. 

Khloe is one of the favorite Keepers, loved by ALL of the seahorses, for she has such a sweet and compassionate soul. When she speaks her voice sounds like a bird song, and she carries a sense of light with her wherever she goes. You will never see Khloe without a few of the seahorses holding on to her tail, traveling along with her throughout the day like little hitchhikers. 

Khloe takes her job seriously, and those who know her know that the Seahorse clan comes first in her life. And all the young Mer Men she dates are quickly told that if they are going to fall in love with her that they must love and respect the Seahorse family as well.

The Khloe Mermaid Art Doll is listed in my Indiemade shop here

Khloe Mermaid the Seahorse Keeper on Indiemade

Radiance - A Handmade Miniature Beaded Folk Art Doll

"Radiance" is a handmade miniature beaded Folk Art Doll, created to portray the beauty we carry within our spirit. So much healing needs to be done in this world - the healing of Mother Earth and the healing of our own human souls, which can seem overwhelming on any given day. Often people ask what difference one person can make when the problems are so vast. 

When we let our own brilliant spirit shine, creating goodness and compassion, it inspires others to do the same. 

"Radiance" was created to be a reminder that even when things seem bleak, or problems seem insurmountable, to stay true to your course with love and patience.

"Radiance" is available in my Indiemade shop here

Radiance Handmade Beaded Miniature Folk Art Doll on Indiemade 

Be You - Be Bold - Be Free - Miniature Women's Empowerment Art Doll

When we reach that point in our lives when we don't care that the purple polka dots don't match the green stripes, and our choices are made by what feels good to our spirit, the sense of freedom is delicious. That is the time when we are living for ourselves, and not compromising to fit into the box that someone else has structured. 

Celebrating our own Uniqueness is one of the most important things we can do for our souls. No one wants to end up on their front porch when they're 80 and be resentful that they didn't live their lives on their own terms. And trust me, those years begin to fly by.

When we were younger we felt that "people pleasing" and being "likeable" was an attribute, only to find out later in life that it usually ends up being detrimental to our very Self.

But, being Unique....now that is an admirable, healthy, and imperative quality.

So...Be You, Be Bold, and by all means....Be Free.

This miniature Folk Art Doll was created to be a reminder of how important You are. Each stitch done by hand, infused with empowering and loving thoughts. 

She is listed in my Indiemade shop here

Be Bold Be Free Be Unique Handmade Folk Art Doll

Happy Thoughts - Beaded Folk Art Doll

Whenever you need to shake the blues or chase away the fears, "Happy Thoughts" brings a ray of sunshine to your spirit and helps to calm the soul. Sometimes we need that little reminder that we aren't alone in this big world. Our minds can get hyper focused on our fears, and soon those negative thoughts can run rampant. Left unchecked our fears can distract us so much that we miss the little miracles that surround us. 

"Happy Thoughts" was created as a simple little boost of positive energy, a wee cheerleader of sorts, reminding us we are loved, we are supported, and we can achieve our dreams.

Everything about this little one just brings a smile to the face.

She is a wonderful spirit doll to carry with you, keep in your tote bag, on your desk, in your car, or near your bedside as a reminder that Everything will be Okay. 

You can learn more about her in my Etsy shop here

Happy Thoughts Beaded Art Doll on Etsy

Penelope Pumpernickel the Social Butterfly - Art Doll Ornament

Penelope Pumpernickel, the social butterfly of her community, hosts her early evening gathering of friends every day at 4pm. She is detail oriented, creating a beautiful space for all of her friends who stop by. She lays out sweet little crystal glasses filled with watermelon wine, tiny squares of pumpernickel bread, and trays of sliced fruit. Bouquets of flowers line the walkway to her porch, manned by the Dragonfly sisters who act as her greeters when her quests arrive.  They lovingly pass out hugs and kisses to the Damselflies, Luna Moths, Dragonflies, and entire Butterfly Kingdom who arrive promptly between 4 and 4:15. 

Penelope knows ALL of the hot gossip in town, which is usually focused on who is dating who and the latest bling that all of the butterfly ladies are sporting. She does tend to get a bit tipsy as the evening passes, so if you see a sparkly butterfly who seems to be floating and fluttering through the air in a sporadic fashion, it’s most probably Penelope.  

Penelope is a Handmade Cloth and Clay Art Doll Ornament, a part of my Wisdom Keeper Art Doll Collection. She is hand stitched from a rich green and fuchsia colored fabric and filled with a polyfil stuffing. Her face is created from doll making clay and painted in an antiqued style with earthy colors, then sealed with a satin finish. Her hair is made from long strands of metallic thread and fiber ribbon and hangs down long under her head wrap that matches her body fabric. A small gold colored butterfly charm is attached on the front of her head wrap. An ivy green curly ribbon becomes her shoulder wrap and is tied off on the side. Petite gold seed beads adorn the bottom of her body. A pair of hot pink and gold butterfly wings is attached to her back, highlighting the colors in her fabric.

She measures approximately 6 inches in height and 6 inches in width. A fabric loop is sewn onto the back of her head wrap for display hanging. 

 She is listed in my Indiemade shop here 

http://jeannefryart.indiemade.com/product/penelope-pumpernickel-cloth-and-clay-art-doll-butterfly-ornament-jeanne-fry

© Copyright Jeanne Fry   All Rights Reserved

Thank you for visiting my online gallery.

The Seeker - Gazelle Woman Cloth and Clay Figurative Sculpture Art Doll

The Seeker is a young Gazelle woman, carrying both the Inspiration of the Feminine, and the gift of Gazelle Wisdom. She has come of age, a young woman, who is now ready to embark upon her life. She has the freedom to explore and the strength and swiftness to follow her path. The choices available to her are limitless, and it is up to her and her alone to create what her life will now be.
While there is a part of her that wants to find contentment in creating a family and staying in her childhood community, there is a greater part of her that wants to travel and see everything that the world has to offer.

Grandmother Gazelle had known of the young woman's adventurous spirit since she was a small child, and had imparted her with Gazelle wisdom so that when she grew older she would have the ability to release her free spirit  and run with speed and confidence toward her dreams. 
And so she did, with a shoulder bag of maps and a scroll marked with a wish list of destinations.

"The Seeker" is Number One in a collaborative series of artwork being created by myself Jeanne Fry, and by Tarah Singh. This collaboration titled "The Journey of a Woman" is a 2D and 3D project created to explore the many phases of a Woman's Spiritual Journey through Life. Archetypes and Symbolism are fluent throughout each piece representing her evolution. The series is comprised of 2D paintings by Tarah Singh, and 3D Figurative Sculpture Art Dolls by Jeanne Fry.

Figurative Sculpture by Jeanne Fry ~ Original Painting by Tarah Singh

 The Seeker (Original One of A Kind) Cloth and Clay Figurative Sculpture

SOLD

Lupus Awareness Art Doll with Butterfly Wings - Keeping the Spirit Strong

"Lupa" is a very special butterfly spirit. As in this world all lovely butterflies have predators, the most important one that Lupa is concerned with is the one that resides inside her body, in fact IS her body. This one is invisible and sneaky, lurking about  in search of her vulnerabilities. Without a moment's notice it can attack her, making her frail.

Unlike our responses to other predators, when we are educated on how to protect ourselves, this one remains a mystery. 

Lupa has been living with this predator named Lupus for quite some time. It has robbed her of many things. She can't flutter about the way she used to with her Butterfly community. She has a lot of pain and tires easily, forcing her to find safe places to rest often. She has to be very careful about what she eats and where she plays, especially in the Sun...which wears her out quickly. 

Many of her friends don't understand the changes in her, for she looks "normal", and so her circle of friends has grown smaller. 

But, Lupa has a Spirit made of steel. She unfolds her wings every morning and begins again, living her life in the best way that she can. Her spirit shines through, for she is adamant that her Soul remain protected from this predator. Her best defense is Love....the love that she gives her self, which is the most important  medicine in the Universe.

So, even though Lupa seems a "frail" butterfly, she is in reality... the Strongest.

(c) Copyright Jeanne Fry

Lupa is a handmade Cloth and Clay Art Doll by Jeanne Fry. She was created to bring understanding and Lupus Awareness. 

She is available for adoption and is listed in our Etsy shop here:
Lupus Awareness Art Doll with Butterfly Wings

Solstice Earth Mama Cloth and Clay Art Doll

I realized a few years ago how much my body and spirit needed and relied on the Sun. I had moved to the Northwest for a short time. It was one of the best experiences of my life. I met fabulous people, loved the land, and am grateful that I had the chance to experience its loveliness, but I yearned for the Sun during those rainy winter months. 

 I realized that the Sun changes my outlook on life and inspires me every day. Even if I spend the entire day indoors, it's very presence shining softly through the window is enough to cheer my soul. 

 I created "Solstice" to honor the Sun and what it brings to Mother Earth and to  my life.

This Earth Mama Cloth and Clay art doll is simply a bundle of sunshine and positive love. She wears a small button pin that says "she most heartily enjoyed pursuing life", which does a perfect job at summing up her symbolism. The small gold dragonflies in her hair just whisper a magical smile. 

SOLD

Violet the Flower Garden Keeper Folk Art Doll

Violet has a very special and much needed garden. Here her family of violets grow, lush and full, delicate yet strong. The Violets have a very important quest, to help the two legged beings.

 You see, they befriend those that "feel" fragile. They help to boost one's self esteem and encourage one to "be" and share of themselves. They know all about the fears of not being accepted, yet they know the importance of allowing one's authentic self to shine is greater. 

The Violets want you to think of them every time your light goes dim with worries, and allow their beauty to remind you of the beauty of your own spirit ... and let it bloom. 

Violet Flower Garden Keeper Art Doll Ornament by Jeanne Fry

The creation of Violet the Flower Garden Keeper is a Contemporary Folk Art Doll Ornament by Jeanne Fry. She body is hand stitched from fabric while her face is sculpted of clay. You can see more photos and learn more about her in her listing in my Etsy shop here
Violet the Flower Keeper Art Doll on Etsy