Inspired by Australian artist Sonia Singh, whose beautiful re-painted ‘Tree change dolls’ were featured here, Wendy Tsao is another crafty activist using reconditioned Bratz dolls to send a very different message to young girls.
Like Sonia, Wendy loves to de-sexualize the popular figures, giving them fresh new faces and hand-made clothes. All Wendy’s creations are modeled on popular heroines of our day: Malala Yousafzai, JK Rowling, Jane Goodall and many more. All of her reconditioned dolls are sold on Ebay as one-off originals, and 30% of the profits are donated to the foundations or causes of the inspirational women they represent. On her website, Wendy explains:
“It has been a welcome change, surprisingly fun and satisfying work to refurbish Bratz dolls and give them new personalities. Brushing their hair and dressing them in their new clothes bring back memories of forgotten childhood play. I enjoy designing their clothes and knitting their little tops, and I like seeing their personalities emerge as I paint their faces.”
Following are some of Wendy’s empowering creations:
Waris Dirie
Waris Dirie is a Somalian survivor of FGM and an outspoken activist against it. She is a model, author, and founder of Desert Flower, which has saved thousands of young girls from the barbaric practice.
“I love the truth. Tell the truth and live the truth, because we’ve seen enough lies and look what it’s doing.” – Waris Dirie
Frida Kahlo
The eccentric Mexican artist who refused to conform is my personal favorite. Just look at those eyebrows!
“Fear, what do I need you for when I have wings to fly?” – Frida Kahlo
J.K Rowling
The world-famous author whose Harry Potter books were repeatedly turned down by publishers before getting her big break is a wonderful inspiration to never give up on your dreams.
“It is impossible to live without failing at something, unless you live so cautiously that you might as well not have lived at all, in which case you have failed by default.” – J.K. Rowling
Malala Yousafzai
The Pakistani child activist who fought the Taliban’s tyranny is the youngest ever Nobel Prize laureate, and a role model to girls around the world.
“We must tell girls their voices are important.” ~Malala Yousafzai
Jane Goodall
British primatologist and UN messenger of peace Jane Goodall is known for her amazing work to save chimpanzees and to help humans understand that animals are sentient beings.
“I thought my life was mapped out. Research, living in the forest, teaching and writing. But in ’86 I went to a conference and realized the chimpanzees were disappearing. I had worldwide recognition and a gift of communication. I had to use them. ” ~Jane Goodall
Roberta Bondar
Roberta Bondar was Canada’s first female astronaut.
“To fly in space is to see the reality of Earth, alone. The experience changed my life and my attitude toward life itself. I am one of the lucky ones.” ~ Roberta Bondar
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