The basis of this arts-based research project was to explore the importance of personal narrative and integration of new thought through doll making. Through the exploration of the history of dolls, a new understanding of the importance of narrative, visual culture, material culture, and pop culture arose. The body of work presented considers this redefining of personal narrative through the creation, documentation, and reflection of doll making, over the course of six months. It is through the dolls and accompanying narratives that recognition of a shift in conceptualization occurs. The research methods used were A/R/Tography and apprenticeship with the Professional Doll Makers Art Guild, through which the extrapolation of new ways of thinking emerged. Contemporary doll artists inspire, and echo the importance of narrative within the production of their artwork. I strive to discover the world of a doll maker through the eyes of a researcher while integrating narrative and redefining my personal narrative through development of new realizations
