Anndelize (Andi) Graf

My tree is inspired by Humanity. It is a microcosm of a world where compassion, empathy and acceptance of one another is the norm rather than the exception. This tree-world represents a place where we celebrate what we have in common as well as what sets us apart.

I hand-made the 60 dolls (dollies) that adorn the tree. Each one is unique (diversity) but similar too, demonstrating our Humanitarian connection. The tiny dolls were constructed using wire (craft pipe-cleaners) as an armitage, wrapped in coloured thread, and dressed in tiny little tunics sewn from felt. Each tunic has decorative stitches and a little pocket situated close to their hearts. I used unvarnished wooden beads for the heads and dyed fleece for the hair. Every little face has a friendly smile on it. The top of the tree has a circle-of-friendship on which four of the dollies are seated.

My artistic interest includes a fascination with unique hand-made art dolls. That I chose to decorate this tree with tiny little hand-made dolls was a natural progression of my interest and a continuing progression of my experimentation.

Artist: Anndelize (Andi) Graf