Today we’d like to introduce you to Selena Jakovec.
Hi Selena, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My journey began totally by accident, I came across a YouTube video that was showing the movement on a silicone baby. I had never seen a doll so realistic, even before painting and rooting hair, she was unbelievable. I was intrigued and immediately set out to purchase one. I’ve always loved babies, I played with the hard factory painted dolls as a child. As an adult, you are taught to grow up and get rid of childish things and grown ups dont “play” with dolls, but I just had to have her. With her purchase came clothing. I found out quick how expensive clothing for preemies and babies in general could be. This is where my clothing line was born, Under the Willow Tree, which I named after my daughter. I specialize in clothing and accessories for premature babies.
From this point I moved on to painting vinyl and silicone dolls myself, and I have never looked back. The art of creating something from nothing is exciting and to take what is a blank doll to a doll that looks like they will cry or breath at any second is very gratifying. Get an up close and personal look at my designs as well as cuddles with my babies at the NC Dolls of the World expo June 27th & 28th in Greenboro booth #35. Show starts promptly at 9am both days!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Goodness no. This business, like any other has ups and downs. To purchase artist created dolls and specialized clothing and accessories for them is are luxury items in my opinion, not to mention the options of artists to choose from. You have to stand out, work hard and be consistent in your work to make it.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, it rings true especially in this industry. Art is not determined by one set of rules therefore one doll or artist is not better or worse than the next. I just do what I like and what I would purchase myself. I design tiny clothing and accessories for premature babies. I also paint realistic vinyl and silicone baby dolls. I have been honored to have been in several magazine articles, a few calenders and have won 1st place for my very 1st fantasy doll at the Kansas doll show.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
While there are a plethora of videos and books on the subject, I have relied on my dollie friends and my instincts and techniques more than outside sources.
Contact Info:
- Website: Etsy.com/shop/SelenasWillowTree
- Instagram: @selenaswillowtree
