Introducing readers to an artist who creates realistic dolls that are also used for medical purposes for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and for women who lose their babies prematurely
By Stefania Miola | Italy
“May this doll bring light to your darkest moments.”
When you love the world of art in all its expressions, you may come across special artists who can give us beauty and wonder. I was lucky enough to find Lucrezia on my life path, who introduced me to the world of reborn dolls.
Ulisse Maria Lucrezia, daughter of art, has cultivated her passion for the world of art since she was young. Her father Ulisse Maria Nicola, a talented painter, has always encouraged her to express her creativity.
As a child, Lucrezia loved watching her father paint and create magnificent works of art. She was fascinated by the way he could transform a simple white canvas into a masterpiece with his brushes and colors. One day she discovered the world of reborn dolls and began her journey towards creating these wonderful works of art.
Reborn dolls are made (starting from white vinyl kits that reproduce the features of newborns by international sculptors) by specialized artists, who use advanced techniques to paint every detail. From the nuance of the skin to the blood veins, every aspect is studied in the smallest details. If observed carefully, these dolls can fool even the most expert eye: they seem truly alive!
Marymarilu’s Reborn dolls (this is her stage name) are true masterpieces, capable of moving and fascinating anyone who admires them. Through her talent and dedication, Marymarilu, who has her workshop in the municipality of Leini in the Turin area, Italy, manages to infuse a unique soul into each doll, giving those who own them an experience of deep connection and wonder.
Each doll is the result of meticulous work, in which every detail is taken care of with attention and love.
Taking care of every little detail to make them look as much like real newborns as possible.
Sharing her passion, she has created groups of enthusiasts and reborners who meet regularly to exchange ideas, techniques and inspirations. Together, they explore new possibilities, experimenting with innovative materials and techniques and give life to themed gatherings in Italian cities.
Reborn dolls are also collectibles among many art and doll enthusiasts.
They are also emerging as innovative therapeutic tools, offering comfort and support to those facing enormous difficulties such as Alzheimer’s disease and the loss of infants. Through the simple act of caring for a doll, people can rediscover lost emotions, create bonds and, above all, deal with grief more calmly.
For anyone with even a passing knowledge of psychology, they know how beneficial it can be for people to have something tangible to hold on to during difficult times.
In settings such as dementia support, interacting with a lifelike doll can elicit positive emotions and promote a sense of calm.
These dolls encourage communication and social interaction, helping patients reconnect with their emotions and memories.
Owning a reborn doll is an emotional experience. Many collectors find in these works of art a way to remember special moments. Some adults coping with the loss of a child find comfort in owning a reborn doll, which symbolizes a lasting bond. “It was like I could give love to a child,” says one mother who lost her newborn. “Feeling the weight of the doll in my arms was comforting, reminding me that even though he wasn’t here, the love I have for him hasn’t gone away.” The doll made her feel less alone, reminded her of her baby, and allowed her to grieve more peacefully.
Others simply appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship that goes into these creations.
Working with Reborn dolls has become more than just a passion for Marymarilu. Every time she creates a new doll, she puts her heart and soul into it, hoping that it will bring joy to whoever owns it.
Thus, thanks to her talent and generosity, Marymarilu manages to bring a little comfort and happiness into the lives of many people, demonstrating that a simple doll can have great therapeutic and emotional power as well as being an extraordinary work of art.
The greatest gratification is not fame or success, but seeing the smile on the faces of those who receive her dolls. And so she continues to create her wonderful Reborn dolls, with the hope of bringing a little love and light into the world through her art.
However, the use of reborn dolls is not without ethical controversy. Some critics raise concerns about the risk of replacing genuine human interactions with inanimate objects. It is essential to approach this practice with sensitivity and awareness, recognizing that each individual and each situation is unique. The primary goal should be to provide comfort and support, not to replace reality.
The magic of reborn dolls isn’t just in their looks; it’s in their ability to bring a sense of humanity and connection to the darkest of times.
Read: THE WAY OF BEAUTY – THE COLOR WORLDS OF ITALIAN ARTIST MARIO NARCISO
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Stefania Miola is an eminent Poetess, Art Critic and Journalist from Italy. Since 2015, her three books have been published – “One sky – the only true one”, “Violets in the Desert” and “The scent of the white rabbit”. All books are awarded nationally and internationally. Her several poems are present in anthologies of various publishing houses.
