Three Beaded Dolls
Country of origin: South Africa
Women in Cape Town, South Africa made these dolls. The dolls are inspired by the artistic traditions of the various ethnic groups they represent – such as the Xhosa, Zulu, Ndebele, and Sotho. These communities have long used dolls and other beadwork to identify ones age, marital status, or to wear for festive occasions such as weddings or the birth of a child. Now these women, many of whom are HIV positive, are able to translate their skills into contemporary dolls and other objects for sale to make a better income for themselves and their families.