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I have been creating porcelain dolls for over 17
years.
What started out as a love for miniature dolls soon turned into a fulltime
passion. When I started making dolls there wasn't a lot of information
available. Larger dolls were very popular, but when it came to making
miniatures, I was on my own. Through many trials, errors, and tears, I slowly
came up with many techniques that have proven to be perfect for miniature
dolls.
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I would like to thank my dear hubby (who affectionately wears
the name tag "Gina's Husband" when I am at a show or public doll event.) He
is much more than "Gina's Husband". He is a great father,
wonderful husband, best friend and he's pretty
darn good with the laundry. He is a professional trouble shooter, and always
seems to have all of the right answers. Thanks hon !
I love you! |
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I
was pregnant with my son (now 15 years old), when I decided to do my first
show. I wasn't sure what to expect, but my first show was a huge success.
Suddenly I was a new mother, and a very busy doll artist!
I sculpted my
first original doll about 13 years ago, and she looked very much like an
alien. I still keep her in my display case as a humble reminder of my
beginnings. (And to remind myself that there were times when I thought I
would just give up, and never sculpt.) |
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years ago I applied for my
Artisan Status with the International Guild of Miniature Artisans. (I.G.M.A.)
I was delighted when I was awarded this honor.
The following year I was pleased to sculpt, & release my first
miniature doll molds for the commercial market.
These molds, as well as my newer releases have quickly become known as some
of the best quality molds on the market.
I have to thank my wonderful mold maker for all of his hard work
and dedication in the production of all of my molds! Thanks Ralph!
I credit my talent to God. It is a lovely gift that I am truly
grateful for. I find sculpting the figures to be the most enjoyable aspect
of creating my dolls, and can get lost in the sculpting process for hours on
end.
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Gina
presenting Elizabeth Taylor
with a miniature figure of Ms.
Taylor at an AIDS benefit at the Museum
of Miniatures, while curator Carole Kaye looks on.
Elizabeth
Taylor Miniature Figure
presented to Ms. Taylor
at an AIDS benefit
Dressed in her yellow wedding gown
designed by Valentino for her marriage
to Larry Fortensky
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My Mom & Dad
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I also wanted to thank my
mother & father for all of their love and support throughout my
life. My mom is one of my closest friends! We are a very close
family.
My father was instrumental in encouraging me to make my own molds.
Sadly, we lost him to Lung Cancer on Dec. 5, 2002. He was a dear
sweet man and my mentor.
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You
see,
I come from a family of plastering contractors. I have three brothers who
all became plasterers, but being the only girl , this proved to be one
occupation I would not pursue. But, being around plaster, was helpful. I
make my own test molds of my sculptures, but leave the commercial mold
making to the pros.
I am still working on my book, which will help aspiring new doll
artists to take the plunge, and create beautiful dolls on their own, by
sharing many of those tips, hints, and tricks |
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Gina Bellous
8006 Chase Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90045
(310) 645-8288
© Gina C. Bellous 2001 - 2006
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It is very
rewarding to see so many talented doll artists now using my molds to create
their beautiful dolls. It always amazes me to see how unique each doll turns
out, and how much creativity, and style each artist puts in their work.
I have met so many wonderful people through my business .
Miniaturists have huge hearts! It has been fun working with so many of the
great collectors and artists in our hobby. |
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