Julove Dolls

Vernissage of Julita Kalin's artistic puppets exhibition

„I was born in Grudziądz, but most of my adult life is related to Toruń, where I lived and studied at the Faculty of Fine Arts at the Nicolaus Copernicus University. Currently, I live in a small, charming village near Toruń.

My dolls are made of natural sheep fleece, formed by dry felting. With the help of a special needle, I bring out the appropriate features and character of the dolls. It is a very creative and time-consuming process, usually taking several hours. The hair is usually mohair, wool or alpaca fleece. When creating clothes, I try to use fabrics that already have a history, and I usually use second-hand materials or materials provided by customers. Following the less waste principle, I am giving these fabrics a new lease of life.

The first doll I ever made was handed over to my daughter Matilda a few years ago and still holds a special place in her heart. Each doll is different: cheerful, feisty, similar to, or completely different from the person it is intended for. Initially, I made dolls mainly for children, but with time they also attracted collectors.

Julove dolls were created out of love for minimalism and longing for the times when the toy was an exclusive and durable object; a friend who took children to the land of their imaginations.
The doll grew up with the child, acquiring additional value, becoming a confidant, witness, amulet or souvenir.

I am motivated by the feeling that I create giving joy to both children for whom my dolls are a playmate and later a memento from childhood, and adults for whom aesthetic aspects are important.”