http://groups.yahoo.com/group/etsydollartisans/

“Art Dolls have a wide variety of styles and mediums. Some can be abstract or tribal, while others can be incredibly realistic. Art dolls do not always move, nor are they the same as baby dolls, Barbie dolls, or any other kinds or types of manufactured dolls.

They are not usually meant to be played with, even though they have the term “doll” attached. The do not have to be human, or look remotely humanoid.

They are usually One-Of-A-Kind (OOAK), and will often go for fine art prices. Art Dolls have avid collectors that enjoy collecting from certain artists and finding new and up-and-coming artists, or on certain themes.”

There are many sites dedicated to the art doll world.

Art Doll Quarterly is a magazine that offers a plethora of eye candy for those that design and collect Art Dolls.  Jack Johnson has inspired many an artist to use polymer clay as their main medium for Art Dolls.  ODACA and NIADA are premier organizations that have the best of the best amongst their ranks.

But what about those that have extraordinary talent, are emerging artists or don’t have the following that well known artists have?   Where do they sell their art?  Many sell at Juried craft fairs, boutiques, and other brick and mortar venues.  Other choose the on-line route.  eBay has long been the place to put their hard work up for auction.  Although there are several artists that fetch high dollar for their creations, many don’t sell, or sell for a mere pittance.

Then, along came Etsy!  A site dedicated to the handcrafted.  However, it’s easy to get lost there and your eyes blur after the first 50 pages of goodies.  I was surprised that there wasn’t an Art Doll group dedicated to promoting this wonderful medium.  But, no more, EGADS will do its best to show off all the wonderful artists that create a variety of art dolls.  If you’d like to join, or see an artist that deserves special attention, please email me.

I have been a Doll Artisan for 4 years now and am excited about starting this new venue in which other artists can promote their work and their medium.

In the next week or so, I’ll be working on a logo, some basic challenges as well as a few promos for the Etsy site.

Please feel free to check out the Etsy Stores listed under Artisans and their respective blogs!