Marina Mitina, a resident of the Kurgan region, has dedicated over 20 years to crafting unique dolls that have garnered international attention. Her creations, including gnomes, animals, and magical characters, are sought after by collectors worldwide, turning her passion into a fulfilling career.

Mitina’s journey began after discovering online forums and communities dedicated to art dolls. She was immediately captivated and began experimenting with bakeable plastic while working at a design institute. This eventually led to a position as a prop and set designer at the Tyumen Puppet Theater, which provided invaluable experience.

Now working as a freelance artist, Mitina’s dolls have found homes in countries across the globe, including the United States, Germany, China, and Australia. This international recognition is a source of constant amazement and gratitude for the artist.

Her dolls are known for their cartoonish features, such as exaggerated proportions, quirky gazes, and distinct noses. Mitina’s early inspiration from Tim Burton’s work is still evident in her creations, which often possess a slightly strange and whimsical quality.

Each doll is made as a unique, one-of-a-kind piece, even when based on similar themes. Mitina primarily uses self-hardening clay and papier-mâché, filling the dolls with sawdust and pebbles for weight. She then paints their faces with acrylics, watercolors, and colored pencils, and sews their outfits herself.

Mitina also creates fabric animals and interior pendants, but her gnomes are particularly popular. These big-nosed figures with warm jackets and spoons are a reflection of the artist’s own heart.

The creation process can take anywhere from a few days to a week, with sewing and stuffing the body being the most challenging aspects. Mitina finds the most joy in painting the dolls’ faces and designing their outfits. While she is often critical of her own work, she perseveres until she achieves a satisfactory result.

Inspiration comes from various sources, including old works, random images, and even everyday observations. Mitina advises aspiring crafters to start immediately, using affordable materials to experiment and develop their skills.

Mitina views her work as a source of happiness, a purpose in life, and a way to appreciate beauty. She believes that her dolls bring a sense of charm and personality to any space, acting as a personal talisman.