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Oh, where do I even begin? This project have occupied me for well over a year - sketches, prototypes, molds... Last month is when it really happened, but the seeds that this idea sprouted from had been sown a very long time ago. I can't even pin down exactly its original source. Water has always been plentifully present in my life - I grew up close to a river and often spent summer holidays by the seaside. Ever since I live so close to the ocean, which I find incredibly inspiring, that influence grew stronger. To me, the ocean is an epitome of the ever-changing reality we live in, and it's vastness is simultaneously calming and horrifying. In my view, having such contrasting qualities only reinforces the rhythm of instability. Sea Blue is an expression of my fascination with the flow of water, tides, currents, waves. Creating a mermaid-doll seemed simply insufficient in conveying that idea. Not that there is anything wrong with mermaids. In fact, I have started working on a more straightforward, fish-tail doll as well. The body of an octopus makes more of an impact, though. Its symbolism indicates abundance, power, infiltrating ability, as well as flexibility. Mermaids are allegorical in a different way - easily recognisable, they have a simpler form and meaning. An octopus-woman has a presence you just cannot ignore. Still, there is an air of vulnerability about her I think all of my dolls can emanate. A truly feminine piece of work!

In many ways, this is my fantasy doll - taking escapism to a whole new level. Her skin tones are reminiscent of calm waters, pale turquoise and bluish. Her wig is actually felted from fine wool fibres, using wet and dry/needle techniques. I thought dreadlocks would compliment the whole concept nicely. Sea Blue's eyes are glass for that wet, glossy look, with depth that is hard to achieve when reproducing in porcelain. She is strung with a combination of steel springs and elastic - best of both worlds. While I enjoy a demanding project, creating this doll took a lot out of me. But it was something I had to do. It hints at some of my interests in making dolls with modified bodies and hybrids, combining animal and human, and bjd-specific shapes. The possibilities of sculpting, casting and assembling such beautiful monsters is what gets me intrigued. I have another couple of them on my mind... For now, enjoy Sea Blue!