Meet Olivia Thomas | Visual artist/ Doll artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Olivia Thomas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Olivia, what’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?
In persuading a path in the arts, I constantly pursue learning as well. In person, on line classes, together with art books and magazines and experimentation to grow my style and skill. A “what if” play approach to break free from a rut. Most of this does not produce a marketable product, but the ah ha moments are invaluable. You need to put in a lot of time, energy and persistence to be rewarded with a little bit of something that sparks joy.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My artwork today is about creating dolls, colorful characters that make people smile. I have explored several art techniques, painting, printing, collage and all of them have informed and improved my doll making skills. I get a thrill when I recognize one of these techniques pop up in my work . Plan to keep pushing the boundaries of that Professionally, I started out as a tailor. I honed my skill for detail, prioritizing and meeting deadlines there. I participated in all types of art classes, keeping the ‘artist’ entertained. Doll making captured my interest and still does !

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Hopefully the visit is in Phoenix when the weather is perfect! So our travels would include any of the out door art events happening. The Shemer art Center sponsors several shows that are fun. A tour of the Phoenix Art Museum and the Heard Museum, and the many private art galleries would be in the plan. Exploring the beauty of the area would include Sedona and Canyon de Chelly. People watching and sketching at many of the local coffee shops would make the time interesting too.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
From an early age, I loved coloring along side my Dad. I can remember his smile as I grabbed for pencils and pastels to make my marks. My grandma taught me to sew, completely by hand, as she didn’t trust me to use her treadle sewing machine. My dolls owned extensive hand made wardrobes!
For my 13 th birthday, my parents presented me with a sewing machine, and I immediately set about sewing my wardrobe.
I have taken classes from many teachers over the years, all contributing some small nugget to push me forward in my work. For all of them, I am grateful.

Website: oliverose.com

Instagram: @oliverose3

Facebook: Olivia Thomas

Image Credits
Olivia Thomas Lynda Stone