I used art therapy applications of doll making to support participants to connect with childhood memories, to connect with their femininity, to work on self-image and self-esteem. Doll making provides a power transitional object that enables participants to work on grief and loss. I used doll making as a healing process to work on attachment issues.
Doll making in the process
at the end of the workshop, participants have shared that they get in contact with their femininity, with gratitude to their grandmothers and mothers. They created a doll that brought to life their name that they wish to be called, the doll that they never had, the daughter that they could not have, the companion that they wish to have, a doll to show to their kids and grandkids, a connection with their own children in the present and a magical moment of being little and playing again.
During the workshop, I ask participants to create a story or a poem that they want to share with the group.
Here are some participant’s quotes:
“A woman is like a flower from the dark night. Her gaze does not believe in love censorship. She is like a free bird.”
“ This doll reminds me of myself and how much I have changed since as I was little until now and how strong and brave I have been.”
“ I never had a doll when I was little, my mother couldn’t afford to buy me one. Finally, now I have this doll and her name is Hope because I still have faith to have a better life and reach my goals.”