Marilynn Huston
As an interior designer for eighteen years, I was exposed to fabrics, textures, colors, compositions, and designs. I was able to create for others an environment that would complete an atmosphere that would make them comfortable to live in. I found each person a challenge and oh how I love challenges! My reward was their satisfaction and joy.
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My doll career began in 1991 in Gladewater, TX. My husband and I created hand-carved, folk art, wooden dolls. He was the carver and I painted, designed, constructed, and costumed each doll. We went to Fine Art shows for five years and sold our dolls nationally.
I attended the 1995 IDEX show in Dallas where I was introduced to the medium of polymer clay dolls. It was like "love at first sight." I knew I had to learn how to make them. Sarah Russell was the one to make them come alive for me. Soon after IDEX, I attended one of her workshops in Dallas. I havepursued this avenue of doll making ever since that day and now teach workshops of my own.
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In addition to ODACA, I am also currently a member of the Central Texas Art Doll Sculptors. I have taught workshops at Doll Makers Fiesta in Austin, TX; Mountain Majesty Workshops in Cloudcroft, NM; the Kansas City Doll Fair, AADA's Academy of American Doll Artists (AADA) Week of Workshops in Concord, NH. I also teach workshops to doll clubs throughout the United States. In 2003, I was featured on the Carol Duvall show on the Home & Garden Television Network (HGTV). My work has also been featured in numerous national magazines.
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My work has been exhibited in many galleries and I have participated in shows such as Santa Fe Doll Art, Houston Quilt Festival, and Kerville Fine Arts Festival.
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I have a restless passion, focus, and commitment that drives me to each new doll that I make. I am my own personal challenger. I strive to improve with every effort. The part of doll making that is the easiest to me is the costuming. In my studio the fabrics line the walls.
To me, the fabric is like music to the soul. It is a daily treasure hunt. Color, themes, movement and facial expression also inspire me.
I also receive great satisfaction in sharing what I know with others. My method is a simple, process oriented, step-by-step way of sculpting that gives great confidence to each student.