Our May exhibit showcased for the first time new, original, one of a kind art dolls that were inspired by Oregon City's architecture, legends, and historical events. The artist creatively describes the art show as follows:

"I'd like to start with what this is not", said the artist. "A chronical and accurate, historical series of events. But I'd love to talk about what it is." She smiled before continuing: "A couple known for their hospitality and generous support of the community, a gift, a tragic event, a legend, a historical building. A place, Oregon City." The artist nodded. "And of course art dolls. Art dolls that are whispering, suggesting, inspiring. And me, listening and trying to make them come alive and share their own vision."

 

Alongside art dolls, the exhibit included original photography by local Ian Scott Mullen and giclée prints from the Museum of the Oregon Territory's historical archive.

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About the artist

LittleSwimminMachine is the art name of Francesca Loi, an Italian artist based in London UK that specializes in art dolls made with paper clay, antique lace, buttons, insignias, collected seashells, heirlooms, sari silk ribbons, vintage French laces, textural fabrics and other found treasures. Her highly collectable artworks are part of collections in diverse countries.