How did I become a dollmaker?
Even as a young child, I was searching for a way to express myself. At the age of seven, I dreamt about a career as a ballet dancer or opera singer. But at the same time, I was sitting next to my mother at her sewing machine, waiting for remnants of fabric from the children's cloths she made. Using these leftover fabrics, I created ballroom dresses for my handmade and Barbie dolls.

The birth of a dollmaker
After secondary school,. I attended an educational academy and became a teacher. But after five years in education, I needed to find a way to express my creative energy. So I went to a conservatory to study music. During this time, I visited a dollmakers' exhibition. From that moment on, I was sure what my life work would be, I wanted to become a dollmaker. And so I did. That happened 20 years ago, and I am still making dolls today.

Inspiration, craftsmanship and materials
For about 15 years, I made dolls form earthenware clay. Some years ago, I started to work with porcelain, because I was inspired by its smooth, translucent quality.

My working method
Once I have sculpted the basic models of my new dolls, I make the moulds. After casting, I sculpt them again. This means that each doll is a unique and one-of-a-kind piece of art. I am also inspired by my love of fabrics, lace and trims. I use my imagination and fantasy when creating a costume for the doll. Form, construction and draping: I do it all myself.

Teaching and the "Dutch Touch"
For more than 15 years, I taught about 60 students a week. But some years ago, I decided to invest all my time in my own personal growth in dollmaking. However, I do recognize that teaching is a part of my life, and having contact with so many enthusiastic students is a wonderful source of inspiration. Therefore I will hold a masterclass two times a year together with my Dutch colleague Marlaine Verhelst in the USA. We call this class "The Dutch Touch". And two times a year I teach a class in my Doll Academy in Spain (ADDA).

The international masterclass
The international masterclass is attended by students from all over the United States. It is held each April/May and September/October. The students learn to sculpt porcelain and create costumes in a unique way and they get to know other secrets of the Dutch Touch. We also teach them special things about Holland. Additional masterclasses will be held in other countries two or three times a year.

Doll Class in Spain
Twice a year, I give a class in Spain. Students from all over the world attend my Doll Academy.

The doll as a piece of art
The basis of dollmaking is craftsmanship, but is goes beyond this. Dollmaking involves expression and recognizing emotions, along with high-quality craftsmanship and materials.
Dollmaking is much more than just sculpture: it encompasses the viewer's total impression and experience. A good doll stays in the memory!

In my opinion, the reason you see dolls more often nowadays in art galleries, museums and modern interiors has to do with their intimate connection to the human spirit.
Recognizing that you have some of the things you see in the dolls in common transforms the doll into a piece of art.
The fabric, used to drape the doll, also provides a sculptural element. This gives you even more to look at and admire: the very essence of the emotional aspect of art.

Future plans
At the moment, I am very happy that my dolls have found their way to special places all over the world. I would like to thank my audience for sharing their emotions with me. They inspire me in my goal of trying to create the ultimate doll.