Welcome, Welcome

I’M SO HAPPY YOU’RE HERE

Why commission a SO SOPHIE art doll? A wonderful way to bring back the intimacy of gift giving, especially when it’s for someone who appreciates artwork and handmade creations, is the commissioning of a unique piece of art! When you commission a SO SOPHIE mixed media art doll you are buying something that is one-of-a-kind and is a truly meaningful gift. Something that is sure to be treasured for years to come.
The most common occasions to gift someone with such a unique gift are birthdays, anniversaries, as a thank you to teachers, as a thank you to a gynaecologist after giving birth, special friendships, weddings, christenings, bachelors/hens, as good luck for new job, as a farewell to a colleague, graduations, new homes, new babies, and the list goes on! SO SOPHIE art dolls are also perfect when gifting as a group! 

How can I commission a SO SOPHIE art doll? Well, first, kindly get in touch with me by sending a message in Instagram or Facebook or sending an email and let me know for whom the art doll is, on what occasion and for when.

How do I choose the theme of the art doll? We can create an art doll inspired by the person themselves by using characteristics like their hair colour and style, eye colour, favourite clothes, etc. The aim is not to create a clone but a one-of-a-kind SO SOPHIE representation of them.  We can also include their pet, or maybe one of their hobbies, a favourite flower, artist, music, etc! You name it, we can find a way to include it somehow!
pet portraits
Of course, the art doll doesn’t have to be inspired by the person themselves. Maybe one of my art dolls posted here or on social media would make the perfect choice. If it’s not available we can create a similar one. Or you might have your own idea that we can work on. For example, they might be obsessed with the painter Frida Kahlo, like I am, so we could create an art doll inspired by one of Frida’s paintings or outfits! 
After our initial contact I will come up with a sketch or two with ideas so it is easier for you to imagine the end result and for you to give any feedback before I start sculpting!
custom art doll

Kim Gordon inspired art doll for an alternative rock music enthusiast – from sketch to art doll

Please remember that you are commissioning me to create an art doll based on examples of my work that you have seen here. You can be sure that the art doll I create for you will have a similar style and quality.
How long will it take? The usual time frame is 1 and a half to 2 weeks for one art doll. I usually always have other commissions, so this time frame is just a general guideline. It’s best to contact me sooner rather than later in order to avoid disappointment! But, between you and me, I can rarely say no, so if it’s for something special that is date specific, like a birthday, I try my best to squeeze it in, even if it means me burning the midnight oil!
I create every art doll from scratch, no moulds or pre prepared pieces are used, so basically there are no ‘corners to cut’ in the creative process. I give the same love and attention to every single one! 
What sizes do you offer and what about prices? Prices will vary depending on the complexity and size of the art doll. Once the sketch has been agreed upon I will give you the price before I begin sculpting. Indicatively, the most common plexiglass box sizes (all dolls come with their plexiglass boxes) are 11cmx11cmx20cm and 15cmx15cmx26cm, with prices starting from EUR100 and EUR130 respectively.  
What’s included in the price?  A one-of-a-kind art doll secured in its plexiglass box, perfect for display and protection. Each art doll is accompanied by an authenticity/inspiration card which includes their unique story and message. Also, a gift bag with tissue paper, ribbon and a SO SOPHIE business card!
And, of course, the excitement of commissioning a piece of art, being involved in the creative process and seeing your ideas come to life! 
 
unique gift

An example of the authenticity/inspiration card (inside)

Also this…

When you buy from an independent artist you are buying more than just a painting or a novel or a song. You are buying hundreds of hours of experimentation and thousands of failures. You are buying days, weeks, months, years of frustration and moments of pure joy. You aren't just buying a thing, you are buying a piece of heart, part of a soul, a private moment in someone's life. Most importantly, you are buying that artist more time to do something they are truly passionate about; something that makes all of the above worth the fear and the doubt; something that puts the life into the living. (Rebekah Joy Plett)

What are the art dolls made of? They are lovingly sculpted by hand from air dry clay and decorated with acrylic paints, water soluble crayons and pencils, paint pens and … a touch of magic! 
Do you have art dolls that are immediately available? In case you are not looking to commission but are interested in art dolls that are currently available please have a look here to see if anything tickles your fancy!
Do you offer Gift Vouchers? If  you are really stuck and not sure of the best theme for the art doll you want to gift
and are worried you might not ‘get it right’, have no fear, the Love Art And Beyond Gift Voucher is also available.
This unique offering entitles the lucky recipient to commission a SO SOPHIE art doll in the theme of their choice! Letting them be a part of the creative process adds another fabulous dimension to your gift; when accompanied by a personal experience and a story to tell, well, it makes it even more special! And it gives you peace of mind!
 
Do you ship internationally? I am not shipping internationally but due to popular request it is something I am currently exploring!
 
unique presents
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any other questions! I would be delighted to hear from you and I am here to help!
Filakia, Sophie ❤️

If you know someone who might be interested in commissioning their own SO SOPHIE mixed media art doll, please feel free to share!