Bratz dolls, once known for their heavy makeup and skimpy outfits have been transformed by artist Wendy Tsao.
Wendy says she was inspired by the Tree Change Dolls, the Bratz dolls that Sonja Singh removed the makeup from to reveal their beautiful fresh faced skin.
Tsao wanted to explore the idea further that toys or playthings could have an impact on one’s identity.
Through her previous work with Child’s Own Studio, she was familiar with the notion that toys can be a source of comfort, pride and meaning for a child (and even adults).
Wendy says:
“The dolls we find in toy stores today are often licensed Disney™ characters or the heroines of Hollywood blockbuster movies that capitalize on the pull of fantasy, fictional characters to young consumers. But there are real-life people who are heroes too, with inspiring stories of courage, intelligence, strength and uniqueness. Could children learn about and be inspired by them through toys?”
So Tsao’s idea came about to repaint and reclothe the manufactured Bratz dolls into the likeness of real, inspiring women- as young girls.
J.K. Rowling
1965- British novelist best known for Harry Potter series
Waris Dirie
1965- Somali model, author, social activist
Roberta Bondar
1945- first Canadian female astronaut
Jane Goodall
1934- British primatologist, UN Messenger of Peace
Malala Yousafzai
1997- Pakistani activist, youngest Nobel Prize laureate
Do you feel children would prefer to play with these dolls? And what inspiring person would you like to see as a doll?
[Featured Image Credit: Wendy Tsao]